Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is challenging Harris County’s Uplift Harris program, which provides nearly 2,000 residents with $500 per month for 18 months. Paxton claims that the program is unconstitutional, as it violates the state constitution’s prohibition on granting public money to individuals. The program was funded with $20.5 million from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, intended for COVID-19 relief initiatives. Those who receive the funds are not required to meet any conditions or demonstrate public benefit, raising concerns about the program’s legality.
The guaranteed income pilot program was approved by Harris County Commissioners with a 4-1 vote, and began on January 12, 2024. Over 59,000 residents applied for the program, but only 1,924 participants were selected through a lottery process. According to Paxton, this selection process is arbitrary and violates the state constitution’s principle of equal rights for all individuals. Paxton argues that the distribution of funds without accountability or expectation of public benefit is unlawful, and he is suing to stop the county from misusing public funds for political purposes.
Paxton’s lawsuit against Harris County’s Uplift Harris program is based on the contention that the program’s distribution of public money to individuals without conditions or oversight is a violation of the state constitution. The attorney general argues that the program does not serve the public interest and is being used for political gain rather than legitimate public benefit. Harris County officials have not yet responded to the lawsuit, but the controversy has raised questions about the legality and constitutionality of similar programs in other jurisdictions.
The city of Austin, Texas has also implemented a guaranteed income program to address housing insecurity, providing $1,000 monthly checks to 85 households at risk of losing their homes. This pilot program, funded with tax dollars, was launched in 2022 and aims to help participants achieve economic mobility and housing stability. In contrast to Harris County’s program, which excludes undocumented immigrants due to federal funding restrictions, Austin’s program is designed to assist those in need regardless of immigration status.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has expressed interest in creating an alternative cash assistance program to cover individuals who are ineligible for Uplift Harris, which is limited to residents who are federally funded COVID-19 relief funds. The controversy surrounding the Uplift Harris program highlights the broader debate over the legality and effectiveness of guaranteed income programs in addressing poverty and inequality. Despite the growing interest in such programs as a means of economic assistance, concerns about their constitutionality and potential mismanagement of public funds persist.
In conclusion, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit against Harris County’s Uplift Harris program raises important questions about the constitutionality and legality of guaranteed income initiatives. While these programs aim to address poverty and economic inequality, concerns about their funding sources, selection processes, and accountability mechanisms must be addressed to ensure compliance with state laws. The controversy surrounding the Uplift Harris program reflects a broader debate over the role of government in providing financial assistance to individuals, and the need for transparent and equitable distribution of public funds.
