Bill > SB395

This bill prohibits political subdivisions in Texas from establishing or operating a guaranteed income program unless explicitly authorized by law. A guaranteed income program is defined as a program providing unconditional cash payments to individuals on a regular basis, with the key distinction that such payments do not require recipients to seek employment, work, or attend job training. The bill adds a new section to the Local Government Code that explicitly bans such programs. However, the bill includes a transitional provision allowing existing guaranteed income program ordinances or measures to remain in effect until January 1, 2026, or until their existing expiration date, whichever comes first. The legislation would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or otherwise will take effect on September 1, 2025. By introducing this prohibition, the bill aims to limit local governments' ability to implement direct cash transfer programs without specific state authorization.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB395