The PLR Vaud party has formally endorsed the “12%” popular initiative, which seeks a 12% reduction in cantonal income and wealth taxes. During a congress held in Begnins on June 24, 2026, party delegates voted 137 to 20 in favor of the proposal, with eight abstentions, ahead of the upcoming public vote scheduled for September 27.
The “12%” initiative garnered significant public support during its qualification phase, collecting 28,000 signatures in 2023. This total is more than double the 12,000 signatures required to trigger a popular vote on the matter.
What the initiative proposes
The initiative, launched by the Chambre vaudoise immobilière (CVI), the Chambre vaudoise du commerce et de l’industrie (CVCI), and the Fédération patronale vaudoise (FPV), aims to lower the final cantonal tax bill for residents by 12%. Supporters describe the move as a necessary fiscal respite, arguing that Vaud remains the most heavily taxed canton in Switzerland.
The vote on September 27 represents a direct clash between competing visions for the canton’s fiscal future. While the government and the Grand Conseil have proposed a more moderate, incremental reduction in taxes, the initiative forces a choice between that legislative compromise and the broader, industry-backed tax cut. The outcome will likely determine the extent of the canton’s fiscal policy shift through 2027.
Legislative context and the road to the vote
The path to the ballot box follows a rejection of the initiative by both the Conseil d’Etat and the Grand Conseil. Despite the initiative being formalised in 2023, the legislative body opted instead to approve a 7% cumulative reduction in income tax to be implemented by 2027 during budget debates in 2025.
This parliamentary decision serves as a middle ground between the government’s earlier indirect counter-proposal of a 5% reduction and the 12% cut demanded by the business associations. With the exception of the UDC and a minority of PLR members, most political parties opposed the 12% initiative during parliamentary debates.
What happens next
Voters will have the final say on September 27, 2026. The electorate will be tasked with deciding between the 7% tax reduction plan already validated by the Grand Conseil and the 12% initiative pushed by the patronal groups. Depending on the results, the canton will either proceed with the legislatively approved 7% reduction or adopt the more substantial 12% cut proposed by the initiative committee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is behind the 12% initiative?
The initiative was launched by three organizations: the Chambre vaudoise immobilière (CVI), the Chambre vaudoise du commerce et de l’industrie (CVCI), and the Fédération patronale vaudoise (FPV).
How does the initiative differ from the government’s plan?
The initiative demands a 12% reduction on both income and wealth taxes. The Grand Conseil has instead approved a 7% cumulative reduction on income tax only, to be achieved by 2027.
When will the final decision be made?
The voters will decide the outcome of the dispute during a public vote scheduled for September 27, 2026.
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