The 86–33 vote makes the pilot programme launched in 2022 permanent, allowing uninsured residents access to non-emergency and chronic care. City estimates suggest 11,000–14,000 people lack valid health insurance.

Credits: Pexels; Author: @karolina-grabowska;

The decision has triggered political debate over costs, migration incentives, and whether healthcare responsibility lies with cities, cantons, or the federal government. Opponents warned that the policy could act as a pull factor, while supporters cited pilot data showing no increase in the number of uninsured residents.