Texas AG Ken Paxton Sues Harris County Over Guaranteed Income Program

The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of a program providing $500 monthly payments to low-income residents, alleging it violates Texas law.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit to stop Harris County's Uplift Harris program, which aims to provide $500 monthly payments to nearly 2,000 low-income residents for 18 months.
Paxton argues the program, funded by federal COVID-19 relief funds, is an unconstitutional use of public money and lacks accountability.
Harris County officials defend the program as a crucial aid for families living below 200% of the federal poverty line, aiming to alleviate poverty and economic disparity.
The program has garnered significant interest, with over 82,000 applications received, highlighting the community's demand for financial support.
Local and national debates continue over the role of government in direct cash assistance, with similar programs being considered or implemented in other U.S. cities.