Building Our Opportunities to Survive and Thrive Act of 2025; BOOST Act of 2025
Summary
The BOOST Act of 2025 proposes a universal basic income of $250 per month for adults aged 19-67. It establishes the Office of Universal Adult Assistance within the Social Security Administration to administer the program. The bill also introduces a 2.5% supplemental tax on adjusted gross income exceeding $60,000 for joint returns (or $30,000 for individuals) to fund the program.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the BOOST Act would provide a regular income supplement to eligible adults. It would also create a new government office and associated administrative overhead. The new tax could affect individuals with incomes above the exemption threshold.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a guaranteed monthly income to eligible adults, potentially improving financial stability.
- Could reduce poverty and income inequality.
- May stimulate local economies through increased spending.
- Establishes an office dedicated to administering and overseeing the program, ensuring accountability.
- Payments are disregarded as income for federal and state benefit programs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Creates a new tax, potentially burdening middle and upper-income earners.
- The $250 monthly payment may be insufficient to significantly impact poverty.
- The program's long-term financial sustainability is uncertain.
- Could disincentivize work for some individuals.
- May lead to increased government debt if tax revenues fall short of program costs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The BOOST Act's alignment with the Constitution is debatable. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes to provide for the general welfare. The act's universal payment provision could be argued as promoting the general welfare. However, opponents might argue that the tax infringes on individual economic liberty or exceeds the scope of federal power.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).