Texas Leaders Push for Basic Income Program Again
- Harris County, Texas leaders are looking to revive a guaranteed basic income program.
- The program was previously struck down by the Texas Supreme Court with restrictions.
- Efforts are being made to reintroduce the program with potential changes.
In Harris County, Texas, a proposed guaranteed income program known as Uplift Harris has sparked controversy, particularly from Commissioner Tom Ramsey, who was the sole dissenting voice in its approval. Ramsey criticized the allocation of $20 million for the program, suggesting that the funds could have been better utilized to assist underserved neighborhoods, potentially benefiting up to 20,000 residents. The program, which received a 4-1 vote from the Harris County Commissioners Court, is funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The Harris County Commissioners Court, which consists of four elected officials and the county judge, is currently exploring options to revive Uplift Harris after facing legal scrutiny. The Texas Supreme Court's involvement followed a lawsuit from Attorney General Ken Paxton, who deemed the program "plainly unconstitutional." Ramsey expressed concerns that his colleagues are attempting to bypass the attorney general's objections, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding the program's beneficiaries. Despite the legal challenges, Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee asserted that the current program remains legal and that the county could establish a new initiative with specific spending restrictions to mitigate political backlash. Menefee expressed hope that this new approach would avoid further lawsuits from the attorney general and provide essential relief to Harris County residents. As discussions continue, the future of Uplift Harris remains uncertain, with ongoing debates about its legality and effectiveness in addressing local economic challenges.