The article reports on a growing concern in Ticino, Switzerland, regarding the decreasing number of Italian cross-border workers. This issue has been exacerbated by discussions in the Italian government, led by Prime Minister Meloni, about introducing a new health tax that would add to the existing tax obligations for these workers. The proposed health tax would be calculated as a percentage of the net income, potentially imposing an additional financial strain on those already navigating the complexities of cross-border employment.

Cross-border workers play a crucial role in the local economy of Ticino, as many residents rely on their contributions for various services and economic stability. The triple tax, which would include additional costs for health care, is feared to deter Italian workers from seeking employment in Switzerland, thereby threatening the economic balance in the region. As such, local officials are voicing their apprehensions about the implications of this new tax policy on labor supply and the overall economy in Ticino.

This situation highlights a significant intersection of labor mobility, tax policy, and bilateral relations between Italy and Switzerland. If implemented, the proposed tax could lead to a reconsideration of how Italian workers perceive opportunities in Switzerland, and may ultimately necessitate a reevaluation of how both countries manage cross-border employment dynamics. The ongoing dialogue and negotiations surrounding these tax issues will be critical in shaping future economic ties between Italy and Switzerland, and could potentially impact the decisions of workers contemplating employment across the border.