Guaranteed Basic Income Program in Sacramento, California!
The guaranteed basic income program has gained popularity as policymakers look for alternatives to traditional social safety net programs. Recently, the city of Sacramento announced that it would launch a second edition of its Basic Income Program, offering monthly payments of $500 for 12 months starting in July 2023.
The program is aimed at helping low-income families in Sacramento meet their basic needs in the face of rising living costs. Funds are from federal COVID-19 relief dollars and private donations from the United Way California Capital Region. The first edition of the program was launched in 2021 and gave 100 low-income residents in the county $300 a month.
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One of the benefits of the guaranteed income program is that it offers participants the freedom to use the money as they see fit. Unlike traditional social safety net programs, which often come with restrictions on how money can be spent, the guaranteed income program gives people the flexibility to prioritize their needs. This can include everything from buying groceries to paying rent to invest in job training programs.
How to qualify for the Guaranteed Basic Income Program?
According to a published article in The Sacramento Bee, to be eligible for Sacramento’s guaranteed income program, applicants must live in the city and meet income requirements determined by household size. To qualify, a single adult must earn less than $28,205, for example, and a single parent with one child must earn less than $49,945. Applications are open until the end of April 14.
While some critics have expressed concerns that the basic guaranteed income programs might discourage people from seeking work, studies have shown that it is not the case. Participants in programs like Stockton’s Economic Empowerment Demonstration have reported higher employment rates and improved happiness levels.
The guaranteed basic income program represents an innovative approach to addressing poverty and economic inequality. By giving people cash assistance with no strings attached, policymakers are empowering individuals and families to make the best decisions for themselves and their communities. As more cities and states launch their basic income programs, we can expect to see increased momentum behind this powerful idea.
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