Texas Judge Dismisses AG Paxton's Attempt to Block Houston's Basic Income Program

A Texas state court judge has dismissed Attorney General Ken Paxton's attempt to block Houston's basic income initiative for low-income residents. Judge Ursula Hall of the 165th District Court denied Paxton's request for a temporary injunction, allowing the $20.5 million "Uplift Harris" program to proceed with its planned distribution of payments starting on April 24.

The program aims to provide $500 per month for 18 months to around 1,900 participants selected through a lottery system. Paxton had sued Harris County, claiming the program violates the state Constitution's ban on gifting public funds. However, the judge rejected Paxton's arguments.

Why this matters: The ruling is a significant victory for guaranteed income programs, which have been launched in several cities and counties across the U.S. to help lift people out of poverty. The case also highlights the ongoing debate over the use of public funds for such initiatives.

Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee argued that the program is a legal way to lift people out of poverty, similar to the federal stimulus checks issued during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Providing resources to those in poverty is essential for societal progress," Menefee stated after the ruling.

The county is expected to appeal the judge's decision, and the Texas Supreme Court may be asked to make a decision on the program before the first payments are scheduled to be disbursed next week. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the county's top administrator, expects the state to appeal the decision but said the program can move forward for now.

In her ruling, Judge Hall cited previous attorney general opinions that supported the need for the state to help underserved communities. She also questioned the state's arguments about how the program would not benefit the local government.

The Uplift Harris program is funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act. Harris County officials have vowed to keep fighting for the initiative, which they say is a moral and good public policy that will help struggling families. Commissioner Rodney Ellis called the judge's decision a "victory" for the program and the community.

Key Takeaways

• Texas judge dismisses AG's attempt to block Houston's $20.5M basic income program.
• Program aims to provide $500/month for 18 months to 1,900 low-income residents.
• Judge rejects AG's argument that program violates state's ban on gifting public funds.
• Ruling is a victory for guaranteed income programs, but county expects state appeal.
• Program is funded through federal American Rescue Plan Act and aims to help struggling families.