Ontario announced the launch of a basic income pilot project on Monday to help those struggling to keep up with the rising costs of living.
The pilot project will run for three years and test whether a basic income can better support vulnerable workers and improve health and education outcomes for people on the lower end of the socio-economic ladder.
Specifically, the pilot will provide 4,000 random residents in Hamilton, Thunder Bay and Lindsay who are either low-income workers, unemployed or homeless with free income to pay for basic needs such as food and housing.
Ontario Basic Income Pilot to Launch in Thunder Bay, Hamilton and Lindsay.https://t.co/osKQYHS84N pic.twitter.com/LvPjDBIz0m
— Ontario government (@ONgov) April 24, 2017
A single person could receive up to $16,989 per year while a couple could receive up to $24,027 annually.
According to the Government of Ontario, the pilot will study whether a basic income can help provide residents with both security and greater employment opportunities.
“Everyone should benefit from Ontario’s economic growth. A basic income will support people in our province who are reaching for a better life,” said Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario. “It gives people the security of knowing they can cover their basic needs and the ability to earn more through work. I believe this pilot is one way that government can be a force for good, and I am excited that Ontario is a leader in piloting this approach to help more people in our province get ahead and stay ahead.”
The news has sparked discussion on whether other provinces should follow suit and adopt a similar policy to help those struggling to keep up with the cost of living.
Should British Columbia adopt a similar policy and provide those in desperate need with free income?
Perhaps providing free income to struggling Kelowna residents could help combat the growth of homelessness and at-risk populations? On the other hand, perhaps providing a basic income could promote a culture of reliance on government and erode incentive among people to look for work?
What do you think about the decision to run the basic income pilot project in Ontario? Do you think B.C. should adopt a similar policy?
Let us know your thoughts!
