Austin, Texas – Today, the Texas Senate voted to pass Senate Bill 2010, effectively banning guaranteed income programs and eroding vital economic protections for Texans. The legislation strips localities’ power to provide direct cash payments to residents facing sudden and long-term economic crises. The Texas Senate’s vote comes on the heels of rising costs and cuts to critical services that keep families afloat nationwide. The Economic Security Project, Every Texan, UpTogether issued the following statement condemning Texas senators for voting against their constituents’ interests. 

“The Texas Senate’s vote today comes on the heels of a troubling trend we’re seeing Republican lawmakers capitalize on across the country,” said Shafeka Hashash, Director of Cash Initiatives at the Economic Security Project. “People have a right to economic agency and the freedom to choose how to live their lives. That’s not negotiable. Yet, today, the Texas Senate passed a bill  that leaves Texas hardworking families worse off, with fewer options in the face of adversity, and even less pathways to economic resilience. It’s devastating to see lawmakers senselessly undermine people’s wellbeing. Texans and working families everywhere deserve better.”

“It’s disappointing to see the Texas Senate advance a bill that blocks local governments from using proven tools—like direct cash—to support residents,” said Ivanna Neri, Senior Director of Partnerships at UpTogether. “We’ve seen firsthand how unrestricted cash can strengthen families and communities. We are grateful for those senators who advocated for this. We hope House leaders will consider the real-life impact these programs have on economic mobility and dignity.” 

“Guaranteed income is a proven way for cities and counties to temporarily help families facing hard times. SB 2010 stops our communities from offering these programs,” said Shannon Halbrook, Director of the Invest in Texas team at Every Texan. “We’ve already seen great results from pilot programs here in Texas and our state should allow them to continue. We thank many of our senators for standing up for these programs, and we will continue to defend this innovative, effective approach to help families get out of poverty.”

“Being part of history isn’t just about being present – it’s about making your voice heard when it matters most. The families of Saffron Trust did exactly that, and together, we’re building a movement that cannot be ignored,” said Phyllis Everett, founder of Saffron Trust, an Austin-based foundation that works to break the cycle of generational poverty caused by systemic inequality. “Our message remains clear: guaranteed income strengthens work, families, and local economies. Texans deserve the freedom to implement community-driven solutions that work for them.”