A major study into Universal Basic Income has found that people who received no-strings-attached payments were on average two percent less likely to be employed. The study revealed that the majority of people who received Universal Basic Income worked fewer hours and spent more time on leisure activities. This finding adds to the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of universal basic income on workforce participation and productivity. While proponents argue that it provides financial security and enables individuals to pursue other interests, critics raise concerns about the potential disincentive to work and the long-term sustainability of such programs. The study's results highlight the need for further research and careful consideration of the potential consequences of implementing universal basic income programs [0272b969].
The proposed Oregon Rebate measure, which aims to create a universal basic income program in the state, has generated significant attention and debate. If approved by voters, it would provide $750 to every Oregon resident, including children. However, opponents argue that such a program would impose a massive tax increase and scare businesses away from the state. On the other hand, supporters believe that it would reduce child poverty and provide financial stability to individuals and families. The measure has received substantial contributions from corporations and individuals in California who support universal basic income. If approved, Oregon would become the first state in the U.S. to implement a universal basic income program [349ba5b8].
In addition to the proposed universal basic income program, Oregon's minimum wage is set to increase by 50 cents per hour on July 1, 2024. The standard hourly wage will be $14.70, with workers in the Portland Metro area receiving $15.95 and rural workers getting $13.70. Oregon is one of nine states that outlaws tip credits, ensuring that workers who receive tips must be paid at least the minimum hourly amount on top of tips. The minimum wage rate is indexed to inflation, with the increase based on the consumer price index. In 2022, just over 4% of Oregon's more than 2.2 million jobs paid minimum wage, with the average hourly wage in the state being $31.17 [bb113352].
A study from the University of British Columbia (UBC) proposes funding a global basic income through a tax on pollution and environmental destruction. The study analyzed 186 countries and found that providing a basic income to all adults in the world could boost global GDP by about 130%. However, the current political climate does not favor the idea, with parties on the right side of the political spectrum historically opposing such schemes. In 2018, B.C. commissioned an expert panel to look into the idea of a basic income, but the panel recommended against it in January 2021, citing practical and philosophical objections. The panel instead recommended 65 improvements to the existing social system, and over half of the recommendations have been implemented or are underway. The author of the UBC study believes that political opposition to a basic income funded through a price on pollution may not persist forever, as political winds shift [99664e2d].