Los Angeles guaranteed income pilot shows promise and limitations
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Participants in Los Angeles' guaranteed income pilot received $1,000 per month for a year. The cash enabled them to pay bills, enroll in courses, start businesses.
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After the payments stopped, some participants struggled financially again, unable to afford basic necessities.
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The cash provided stability and reduced income volatility for recipients. Some achieved economic mobility with concrete goals.
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Proponents say guaranteed income promotes health and self-worth. Critics question political feasibility and funding sources.
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City manager called guaranteed income an effective anti-poverty strategy but said it requires accompanying workforce, economic, and housing initiatives.