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Thursday morning saw the dispute over Harris County’s Uplift Harris basic income pilot program escalate to the courtroom. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s bid to halt the county’s distribution of $500 monthly to low-income families was denied during a temporary injunction hearing.
Paxton’s lawsuit, filed more than a week prior, alleged that the program violated the state Constitution’s prohibition on gifting public funds to individuals or entities. He sought a temporary restraining order to halt the program, arguing that the allocation of funds was arbitrary and labeled the initiative a “socialist experiment.”
In defense, Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee contended that the program aimed to alleviate poverty, distinguishing it from the improper use of public funds to benefit associates. Menefee highlighted the legality of similar initiatives, such as the distribution of stimulus checks under former President Donald Trump.
Despite the legal battle, approximately 1,900 recipients had already been selected to receive the monthly payments, with disbursement set to commence the following week. The program received an overwhelming response, with over 82,500 applications processed through a rigorous selection process.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate significant financial need, reside in specified high-poverty areas, or be part of designated county assistance programs. Menefee celebrated the court’s decision as a victory for the county’s residents, emphasizing the importance of aiding struggling families with government assistance.
However, the legal saga may not be over, as state officials are anticipated to appeal the decision and seek intervention from the Texas Supreme Court. With the program’s scheduled launch approaching, the Supreme Court may soon weigh in on the matter to determine its fate.