Summary of Bill S 2032: An Act Related to a Universal Basic Income Pilot

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 2032 aims to establish a pilot program for a universal basic income (UBI) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The primary goal is to assess the viability and effectiveness of providing a guaranteed monthly income to residents, ensuring that participants earn at least a living wage. This initiative seeks to address economic disparities and improve the overall well-being of participants.

Key Provisions

• Pilot Program Establishment: The bill mandates the creation of a UBI pilot program, which will involve at least 1,500 randomly selected residents.
• Income Calculation: The monthly income for participants will be calculated to ensure it meets or exceeds a living wage, taking into account household size and other relevant factors.
• Funding Mechanism: The program will actively seek philanthropic contributions to supplement state funding. It requires certification of at least three years of funding before disbursing income to participants, with a goal of ensuring full funding for a minimum of five years.
• Advisory Committee: An advisory committee composed of experts from higher education and state administration will guide the program, particularly in calculating living income and managing research on participant well-being.
• Outcome Measurements: The program will evaluate various outcomes, including:
  • Cost Analysis: Assessing the financial implications for the program and any potential savings or costs for other public agencies.
  • Public Health Metrics: Monitoring health outcomes such as cancer survival rates, nutrition levels, and hospitalization rates.
  • Workforce and Education: Evaluating workforce participation, educational attainment, and overall material prosperity.
  • Criminal Justice Impact: Analyzing crime rates and interactions with the court system.

Affected Parties

The pilot program will directly impact the selected participants, who will receive monthly income support. Additionally, various state agencies, including the Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Department of Transitional Assistance, will be involved in the program's implementation and evaluation. The broader community may also benefit from improved public health and economic outcomes.

Procedural Aspects

• Introduced: February 27, 2025
• Committee Referral: The bill has been referred to the committee on Revenue.
• Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing is set for November 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Room A-1, where stakeholders and the public can provide input on the bill.

Conclusion

Bill S 2032 represents a significant step towards exploring the potential benefits of a universal basic income in Massachusetts. By establishing a pilot program, the state aims to gather data and insights that could inform future policies aimed at reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.