Webinar: Learning About Universal Basic Income

From proposals in the Democratic presidential primary to the economic stimulus checks that were part of the federal government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been significant conversation in recent months about the benefits of direct cash payments to help ensure families can afford the basics. One form of direct assistance is often referred to as “universal basic income” or “guaranteed income.”

For this panel discussion, we brought together a range of policy experts and a state delegate for a conversation about existing universal basic income program models and how Maryland could explore implementing some form of direct cash assistance statewide.

Panelists:

  • Delegate Gabriel Acevero, Maryland General Assembly
  • Matt Bruenig, People’s Policy Project
  • Sebastian Johnson, Writer and Philanthropic Strategist
  • Madeline Neighly, Economic Security Project
  • Benjamin Orr, Maryland Center on Economic Policy Executive Director
  • Moderator: Nikki Thompson, Maryland Center on Economic Policy and Maryland Fair Funding Coalition

Recorded May 21, 2020

Links for more information:

Comparison of cash assistance proposals considered in Congress in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Analysis by Economic Security Project.

The Magnolia Mothers Project, providing $1,000 per month to low-income mothers for one year.

Stockton Economic Empowerment Demonstration, a guaranteed income pilot project in Stockton, California.

How federal direct payments can help states and cities weather the financial crisis. (Fact sheet from Economic Security Project)

Options for cleaning up Maryland’s tax code to raise revenue.