Alexandria’s City Council approved piloting a Universal Basic Income program — now they have to work out the details.
The program was approved as part of larger spending discussions around federal funding available to the city to help residents recover from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The city announced Saturday that community members are invited to participate in a virtual information session to learn more about the pilot, which is in the development phase, and share input to help shape the final design of the program. Sessions will be offered on Monday, August 9 at 2 p.m. (today), and Tuesday, August 10 at 6 p.m. with interpretation options.
Visit the Guaranteed Income Pilot Program page to register for the information sessions and for more information about the program.
Eligible residents should be earning 30 to 40% of area median income — which means $27,100 for a single person or up to $55,760 for a family of five. Residents will need to have some other form of income to be eligible for the $500 per month.
Alexandria has received $29.8 million as part of the American Rescue Plan Act, and will have another set of funding for use in 2022 and beyond. According to ARPA, allowed uses of the funds include “responding to the public health emergency or its negative economic impacts,” continued government services that were affected by a reduction in public revenue and investments in water, sewer or broadband infrastructure.
“The pandemic has clearly demonstrated how many Alexandria families are on the financial edge, where an unexpected setback, like reduced hours at work or a car repair, can have a devastating impact. Guaranteed income is a proven tool to help families secure stronger financial footing and take steps to move up the economic ladder,” said Mayor Justin Wilson. “I am excited to become part of Mayors for Guaranteed Income (MGI) and join mayors around the country as an advocate for guaranteed income. Across the nation through guaranteed income pilots, jurisdictions are taking steps to support vulnerable households and promote the economic wellbeing of hardworking families and our communities as a whole.”
The Guaranteed Basic Income Pilot Project is one that other cities are trying with reportedly positive results, and Alexandria’s Community Foundation, ACT for Alexandria, pushed to ensure this funding was included.
“Guaranteed income is a proven solution that can increase economic mobility, ensure greater economic freedom, and improve health and wellbeing,” wrote ACT for Alexandria’s Heather Peeler. The supplemental income is not designed to replace a job, but boosts bottom line income for those who need it most. “It helps low-income families even out the financial ups and downs, such as an unexpected car repair or reduced work hours, that prevent them from making ends meet.”
Alexandria’s pilot program would offer $500 per month for two years to 150 families. Richmond, Virginia is piloting a similar program with fewer families — just 18. Ellenville, New York is also piloting a program.
