Austin, TX – In a huge win for families across the state, a bill to ban guaranteed income failed to pass the Texas Legislature. Families and advocacy groups gathered at the Capitol today to commemorate a successful multi-month campaign to stop SB 2010, which would have banned governments and nonprofits from being able to provide both public and private direct cash payments to residents facing economic hardship. Guaranteed income continues to be a critical safety net for many working families in the wake of persistent inflation as costs continue to rise. Leading community organizations Every Texan, UpTogether, and Economic Security Project celebrate this victory which has enshrined Texans’ right to financial stability.
“In defeating this bill, we bucked big outside lobbyists who tried to mess with Texas families,” said Shannon Halbrook, Director of the Invest in Texas team at Every Texan. “This campaign was one of true unity and momentum. Families and advocates from every corner of the state came together to tell their own stories of how guaranteed income helped them. We appreciate the lawmakers who championed these efforts, and we remain committed to defending today’s win and helping Texas cities and counties do more for families facing hard times.”
Throughout the legislative process, dozens of advocates, community leaders, and individuals who had received cash from guaranteed income came to the capitol to champion guaranteed income and oppose this harmful legislation. Families shared personal stories about how cash helped them achieve personal and professional goals, pay for basic needs such as food, utility bills, rent, school supplies, and gave them a sense of psychological safety and peace. Advocates spent months educating legislators on the merits and benefits of direct cash in their communities. Collectively, these efforts raised pressure on the issue and created the conditions for the bill’s failure.
“There was so much joy and relief when families realized their voices had made a difference. These investments aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. They help people stay housed, care for their children, and make progress on their goals. Families showed that when we invest in communities and listen to lived experiences, we don’t just stop bad policies, we build momentum for a new system rooted in trust, respect, and choice,” said Ivanna Neri, Senior Director of Partnerships at UpTogether.
SB 2010 was a copycat bill, identical to legislation introduced in dozens of statehouses across the country at the insistence of right-wing extremist group Foundation For Government Accountability (FGA). FGA represents no local constituencies and flies in from Florida to lobby in Texas. They are known to hold other extreme views, as they helped author Project 2025, oppose expansions to Medicaid, and support cuts to child labor laws.
“Today’s victory is tangible. Stopping this proposed ban on guaranteed income means families in Texas will have access to cash that can help them pay for groceries, get a car repair, stay on top of rent, or invest in their own education,” said Shafeka Hashash, Director of Cash Initiatives at the Economic Security Project. “The Texas legislature’s failure to pass this nefarious bill is a huge win for the national guaranteed income movement led by families, advocates, researchers, and local leaders. In Texas we built a coalition that proved that direct cash is a solution families believe in and will fight for from every corner of the country.”
While they relish in the victory today, the community leaders pledge to continue their fight for economic fairness and local decision-making power. They know that it’s likely the same bad actors will come to town to ban guaranteed income, or to raise challenges in courts. They plan to continue working together to aid the wellbeing of families in Texas.