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HB 628

Human Services - Universal Basic Income for Transition-Age Youth Program - Establishment

2026 Regular Session

Maryland HB 628 creates a Universal Basic Income pilot program providing direct cash payments to transition-age youth aging out of state support systems.

First Reading Appropriations
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 628

Legislative bill overview

HB 628 establishes a Universal Basic Income (UBI) pilot program specifically for transition-age youth (typically 18-26 years old) in Maryland. The bill creates a framework for providing direct cash payments to eligible young adults during a critical period when they age out of foster care, juvenile justice systems, or other state support programs.

Why is this important

Transition-age youth face significant barriers to economic stability, including housing insecurity, unemployment, and limited access to support systems. This program aims to test whether direct cash assistance improves outcomes in employment, education, housing stability, and overall wellbeing during this vulnerable life stage. The results could inform broader policy discussions about poverty intervention strategies and youth support in Maryland and beyond.

Potential points of contention

  • Program costs and funding: Establishing a new entitlement program requires identifying revenue sources, which may involve tax increases, budget reallocation, or federal funding—all politically contentious decisions
  • Eligibility and fairness: Limiting UBI to transition-age youth may raise questions about why other vulnerable populations (low-income families, seniors, disabled adults) don't qualify, creating equity debates
  • Work incentives debate: Critics may argue unconditional cash reduces motivation to seek employment, while supporters contend it enables youth to pursue education and stable career paths rather than survival-mode decision-making
  • Program duration and sustainability: Questions about whether a pilot becomes permanent, how long recipients receive benefits, and long-term fiscal impact remain unresolved

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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