Kevin Wagner
- Republican lawmakers from various states are seeking to ban guaranteed basic-income programs.
- These programs typically provide $500 to $1,000 monthly payments to low-income Americans for 1-2 years.
- Opponents argue these programs are costly for taxpayers and foster dependency on government.
As guaranteed basic-income programs get more popular, opposition is also on the rise.
In five states, Republican politicians are trying to ban programs that provide low-income people with monthly payments of $500 to $1,000 for a year or two, with no strings attached. Participants in recent pilot programs have reported using the money to pay rent and utilities, buy groceries, and pay off credit card debt.