In 2017, Finland became the first European nation to test out universal basic income, giving 2,000 unemployed residents the equivalent of about $634 a month. One stated goal of the program was to see if the base income would help people find jobs. Employment levels did not improve during the two-year study, according to the BBC, though participants did report feeling happier and less stressed.
The idea of universal basic income is supported by those on both the left and the right, with one key ideological difference: Democrats tend to think a basic income should be given in addition to benefits poorer Americans receive, while Republicans and Libertarians believe it should replace entitlements.
The three city-led pilot programs are designed to ensure participants do not lose their existing benefits.
While many, including Yang, have framed the need for universal basic income around increased workplace automation and job loss, officials where the program is being tested emphasize it would also help bridge income inequities for people of color.
“Yang talks about the change in the labor pool, but that’s just one aspect of it,” said Baraka. “There has been a deep-seated wealth gap in this country for a long time.”
Opponents often note universal basic income will be a costly endeavor. Yang’s proposal of giving $1,000 a month for every adult in the United States would have a multi-trillion dollar price tag. He said he would pay for it by adding a tax on the production of goods or services and consolidating some welfare programs.
The pilot programs are and will operate on relatively modest budgets, from several hundred thousand dollars to $3 million, and are largely being paid for with private donations. A bulk of the $3 million pilot in Stockton is being funded by Economic Security Project, a pro-basic income advocacy and research group, as well as other donors.
In Milwaukee, Lewis initially proposed funding the several hundred thousand dollar program for her city, in part, with $100,000 that was earmarked for computer upgrades in the police department. But some local officials protested the use of public funds, and the idea was scrapped.
Source: politico.com
See more here: news365.stream
