Janice Bookout advocates for guaranteed income at Texas Senate hearing

The Senate Committee on Local Government convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss various legislative matters, with a significant focus on Senate Bill 2010. During the meeting, Janice Bookout, a Texas resident and mother of two, voiced her opposition to the bill, highlighting the struggles faced by low-income families in the state.

Bookout shared her personal experience of financial hardship after her husband was furloughed during the pandemic, which led to a loss of income for her as an event planner. She explained how her parents provided crucial financial support, allowing her family to avoid homelessness. This support, she noted, was significantly less expensive for taxpayers compared to the costs associated with sheltering a family in need.

In her testimony, Bookout emphasized the importance of guaranteed income as a means to support vulnerable communities. She argued that such measures could lead to increased workforce participation and overall community well-being. She criticized the current minimum wage of $7.50, stating that it falls far short of the living wage needed for a decent standard of living in Texas.

Bookout's remarks also touched on broader social issues, referencing the UN Declaration of Human Rights and advocating for a more equitable approach to labor laws. She concluded her testimony by asserting that the bill in question was more about controlling local governance than protecting the interests of Texans.

The meeting concluded with a call for questions, but time constraints limited further discussion. The committee's deliberations on Senate Bill 2010 and its implications for local governance and community support will continue to be a focal point in upcoming sessions.