California pilots universal basic income as state ranks No. 1 in poverty

California is piloting its first state-led universal basic income program as new analysis finds the state has the highest poverty rate in the nation. While state Democrats use figures like these to demonstrate the need for more social spending, critics say these programs ultimately make California more expensive and increase poverty in the long run.

The two “Guaranteed Income Pilot Programs’ will provide 150 former foster youth in Ventura County with $1,000 per month and another 150 in San Francisco with $1,200 per month to “disrupt poverty, advance equity, and support the basic needs of recipients.”

“Guaranteed income programs help level the playing field and will give these former foster youth the support and resources they need to pursue their California dream,” said California governor Gavin Newsom.