Texas state lawmaker criticizes 'universal basic income' programs: 'We can't just hand out money like popcorn on street corners'

Sun, 02/04/2024 - 16:42

State Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, speaks during debate in the Senate Chamber in Austin, Texas. — State Sen. Paul Bettencourt during a debate in the Senate Chamber in Austin.
Associated Press

A Texas state senator said a Texas-based basic income plan will "hand out money like popcorn."
State Sen. Paul Bettencourt asked the state attorney general to declare it unconstitutional.
The Houston-area plan to give $500 to needy families began taking applications last month.

A state senator continues to attack guaranteed basic income plans after a Houston-area program announced it would deliver $500 a month to some of the region's poorest residents.