1. What is the estimated minimum income required for a single individual to cover basic expenses in Tennessee?

The estimated minimum income required for a single individual to cover basic expenses in Tennessee is approximately $24,322 per year, or $2,027 per month. This includes expenses such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessary expenses. However, this amount may vary depending on factors such as location within the state and individual spending habits.

2. How does the cost of living in Tennessee impact the minimum income needed for basic needs?

The cost of living in Tennessee significantly impacts the minimum income needed for basic needs. The state has a relatively low cost of living compared to the national average, with a composite index of 87.3 (100 being the national average). This means that things like housing, groceries, utilities, and transportation tend to be less expensive in Tennessee compared to other states.

However, just because the cost of living is lower in Tennessee does not mean that individuals or families can survive on a lower income. Housing costs are on the rise in urban areas such as Nashville and Knoxville, and wages have not kept up with this increase. This means that individuals may need to earn more than minimum wage to cover housing expenses.

Additionally, healthcare costs in Tennessee are higher than the national average. According to a report by The Commonwealth Fund, Tennesseans pay an average of $5,031 per year for health insurance premiums alone. This can put a strain on household budgets and require individuals to earn more money to meet their basic healthcare needs.

Overall, while the cost of living may be lower in Tennessee compared to other states, it is still important for individuals to earn enough income to cover their basic needs comfortably without struggling or sacrificing essential expenses such as healthcare.

3. Does the minimum wage in Tennessee align with the cost of living and cover basic needs for workers?

No, the minimum wage in Tennessee is currently $7.25 per hour, which is

lower than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour and below the living wage estimates for the state. According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, the living wage for a single adult in Tennessee is $11.30 per hour and for a family with two working adults and two children, it is $24.01 per hour.

This means that even if someone works full-time at minimum wage in Tennessee, they would not earn enough to cover their basic needs such as food, housing, transportation, healthcare, and other essential expenses.

Furthermore, since Tennessee does not have statewide laws regarding paid sick leave or paid family leave, workers earning minimum wage may struggle to afford time off work for personal or family health needs.

Overall, the current minimum wage in Tennessee does not align with the cost of living and may not fully cover basic needs for workers.

4. What percentage of Tennessee’s population falls below the income threshold for basic needs?

29.1%

5. Is there any government assistance available for individuals or families who do not meet the minimum income for basic needs in Tennessee?

Yes, there are several government assistance programs available for individuals and families in Tennessee who do not meet the minimum income for basic needs. These programs include:
– The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Also known as food stamps, this program provides low-income households with monthly benefits to purchase groceries.
– Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This program offers financial assistance to families with children in need of temporary support.
– Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program assists eligible low-income households with their heating and cooling costs.
– TennCare/Medicaid: This is a state-run health insurance program that provides medical coverage to low-income individuals and families who cannot afford private health insurance.
– Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: This program provides rental assistance for low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities to afford decent and safe housing.
– Tennessee’s Families First/Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Child Care Assistance: This program helps working parents or parents attending school or training, pay for child care while they work or attend school.

Eligibility requirements for these programs vary based on factors such as income level, household size, and other criteria. Individuals can apply online or in person at their local Department of Human Services office.

6. What factors contribute to the varying minimum income for basic needs across different regions within Tennessee?

1. Cost of living: The cost of housing, food, transportation, and other essential expenses can vary significantly across different regions within Tennessee. Therefore, the minimum income needed to meet basic needs will also differ.

2. Regional economy: The economic conditions of a particular region can affect the minimum income needed to cover basic needs. Areas with a strong economy and job market may have higher wages and lower unemployment rates, making it easier for individuals to meet their basic needs.

3. Population demographics: The demographic makeup of a region can also play a role in determining the minimum income for basic needs. Regions with a higher concentration of elderly or low-income households may have a lower average income needed for basic needs.

4. Healthcare costs: The cost of healthcare services and insurance can vary significantly across regions within Tennessee. Areas with high healthcare costs may require a higher minimum income to cover basic medical needs.

5. Education level: Regions with a higher percentage of college-educated residents tend to have higher-paying jobs and thus require a higher minimum income to meet basic needs.

6. Housing availability and affordability: The availability and affordability of housing can greatly impact the minimum income required for basic needs. In areas with limited affordable housing options, individuals may need to earn more money to maintain adequate housing.

7. Social assistance programs: Access to social assistance programs such as food stamps, utility assistance, or rental assistance can greatly reduce the financial burden on low-income households and decrease the overall minimum income needed for basic needs in a particular region.

8. Income inequality: Income inequality within a region can also contribute to varying minimum incomes for basic needs. Areas with high levels of poverty and wealth disparities may have an increased number of individuals living below the poverty line who require more government assistance to meet their basic needs.

9. Tax policies: Different tax structures at the state or local level can affect the disposable income available for individuals after taxes are deducted from their paychecks. Higher tax rates may require individuals to earn more money to maintain a minimum standard of living.

10. Natural disasters: Regions that are more prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, may have higher living expenses related to insurance costs, property repairs, and disaster preparedness. This can impact the minimum income needed to cover basic needs in those areas.

7. Are there any efforts being made at the state level to address issues of poverty and inadequate income for basic needs in Tennessee?

Yes, there are several efforts being made at the state level in Tennessee to address issues of poverty and inadequate income for basic needs. These include:

1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. The Tennessee Department of Human Services administers the program in the state and works to ensure eligible residents receive benefits.

2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): TANF provides cash assistance to families with children who are struggling to meet their basic needs. The program is administered by the Tennessee Department of Human Services.

3. Minimum Wage: Currently, the minimum wage in Tennessee is $7.25 per hour, which is also the federal minimum wage. However, some cities and counties in the state have implemented higher minimum wages to address local cost of living.

4. Affordable Housing Programs: The Tennessee Housing Development Agency offers a variety of programs aimed at providing affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families. This includes rental assistance, homebuyer education, and down payment assistance.

5. Workforce Development Programs: The state offers workforce development programs to help individuals gain skills and find employment that leads to higher wages and better economic stability.

6. Healthcare Access: The state has expanded Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act, allowing more low-income residents to access healthcare services.

7. Tax Credits and Rebates: The state offers tax credits and rebates for low-income individuals and families to help offset the burden of high cost-of-living expenses such as energy bills.

Overall, while there are efforts being made at the state level in Tennessee to address poverty and inadequate income, there is still a need for more comprehensive policies and programs that can provide long-term solutions for low-income individuals and families in the state.

8. How has the minimum income for basic needs changed over time in Tennessee?

The minimum income for basic needs in Tennessee has increased over time, but at a slower rate compared to the national average. In 2018, the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) estimated that a single adult in Tennessee would need a minimum hourly wage of $16.38 to afford a modest one-bedroom rental unit, while a household with two adults working full-time would need an hourly wage of $13.86 each to afford a two-bedroom rental unit.

From 2000 to 2018, the minimum hourly wage needed for a single adult to afford a one-bedroom rental increased by 23%, from $13.29 to $16.38. This is slightly below the national average increase of 24% during the same time period.

For households with two adults working full-time, the minimum hourly wage needed to afford a two-bedroom rental unit increased by 20% from $11.50 to $13.86 between 2000 and 2018.

In comparison, the federal minimum wage has only increased by about 33% over this time period, from $5.15 per hour in 2000 to $7.25 per hour in 2018. This means that despite some increase in the minimum wage, it has not kept pace with the rising costs of basic needs like housing and other essential expenses in Tennessee.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn have further exacerbated these challenges for Tennesseans struggling to make ends meet, highlighting the ongoing need for policies at both state and federal levels that address affordable housing and living wages.

9. Is universal basic income being considered as a potential solution to address inadequate income in Tennessee?

As of now, universal basic income (UBI) is not being considered as a potential solution to address inadequate income in Tennessee. UBI is a concept that has gained attention in recent years as a potential solution to address income inequality and provide financial stability for individuals and families.

While some cities and states in the US have experimented with pilot programs for UBI, there are currently no plans for such an initiative in Tennessee. Additionally, there are mixed opinions on the effectiveness and feasibility of implementing UBI nationwide.

Instead, Tennessee focuses on policies and programs aimed at increasing employment opportunities, job training, and education to improve overall economic outcomes. These efforts may indirectly help alleviate inadequate income by providing individuals with the skills and opportunities to secure higher-paying jobs.

10. Are there programs or initiatives specifically targeting low-income households in need of financial support for basic needs in Tennessee?

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives in Tennessee that provide financial support for basic needs to low-income households. These include:

1. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): TANF is a federal program that provides cash assistance to low-income families with children. In Tennessee, the program is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS). Eligible households can receive monthly cash benefits based on their income level and family size.

2. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP, also known as food stamps, provides low-income households with monthly benefits to purchase food. The program is administered by DHS and eligibility is based on income and household size.

3. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP provides financial assistance to eligible households to help lower their energy bills. The program is administered by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA).

4. TennCare: TennCare is Tennessee’s Medicaid program, which provides health insurance coverage to low-income individuals and families who meet certain eligibility criteria.

5. Emergency Cash Assistance: This program provides one-time financial assistance to families facing a crisis situation, such as eviction or utility shut-off. It is administered by DHS.

6. Lifeline and Link-Up: These are federal programs that provide discounts on phone or internet service for eligible low-income households.

7. Senior Citizen/Disabled Community Relief Fund: This fund provides emergency financial assistance to elderly or disabled individuals in immediate danger of losing essential services.

8. Good Neighbor Energy Fund: This fund assists families who are facing an emergency energy crisis due to an unexpected loss of income.

9. Charitable organizations: There are many non-profit organizations in Tennessee that offer various types of financial assistance such as rent and utility assistance, food pantry services, and clothing vouchers for low-income individuals and families.

10. Community Action Agencies: These agencies provide a variety of services and resources to low-income individuals and families, including weatherization assistance, job training programs, and emergency financial assistance.

11. How do different demographic groups, such as seniors or single parents, fare when it comes to meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs in Tennessee?

According to a study by the United Way, 40% of Tennesseans (approximately 2.5 million people) do not earn enough to cover their basic household expenses such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and childcare. This includes seniors and single parents.

Seniors in Tennessee face challenges in meeting their basic needs due to fixed incomes, rising costs of living, and potentially higher healthcare expenses. According to a report by Wallethub in 2020, Tennessee ranked 45th out of all states for the economic well-being of its elderly population.

Single parents in Tennessee also struggle to meet their basic needs as they often have lower incomes and higher childcare expenses. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, there are approximately 313,000 single-parent households in Tennessee, and over half (57%) live below the poverty line.

Furthermore, women account for the majority (83%) of single-parent households in Tennessee and tend to earn lower wages compared to men. This contributes to the challenges faced by single mothers in meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs.

In summary, both seniors and single parents face difficulties in meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs in Tennessee due to low wages and high expenses. Addressing income inequality and providing support for affordable childcare can help alleviate these challenges.

12. What measures can be taken to bridge the gap between the current minimum income and what is needed to cover basic expenses in Tennessee?

1. Increase the state’s minimum wage: One of the most direct ways to bridge the income gap is by increasing the minimum wage in Tennessee. This would provide low-income workers with a higher income and improve their ability to cover basic expenses.

2. Offer tax credits for low-income households: The government can offer tax credits, such as Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit, to low-income households. This can help offset some of their expenses and increase their disposable income.

3. Encourage and support education and training programs: Providing access to education and training opportunities can help individuals acquire skills that are in demand, leading to better-paying jobs. This would ultimately help increase their income and reduce the income gap.

4. Strengthen worker protections: The state can strengthen worker protections, such as implementing fair labor standards and ensuring equal pay for equal work, which can prevent exploitation and provide workers with a fair source of income.

5. Support affordable housing initiatives: Affordable housing is a crucial factor in determining someone’s cost of living. By investing in affordable housing initiatives, the state can reduce the housing burden on low-income households and free up money for other basic expenses.

6. Expand Medicaid coverage: Expanding Medicaid coverage would ensure that low-income individuals have access to affordable healthcare, reducing their out-of-pocket medical expenses and increasing their disposable income.

7. Increase funding for social service programs: The state government can increase funding for social service programs that provide assistance with food, childcare, transportation, and other essentials to low-income families.

8. Provide incentives for businesses to offer benefits: Incentivizing businesses to offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid leave can improve overall compensation for employees without raising wages directly.

9. Improve public transportation options: Lack of reliable transportation is often cited as a barrier to employment for low-income individuals. Improving public transportation options can give them access to better-paying jobs and increase their income.

10. Combat inequality and discrimination: Inequality and discrimination can contribute to the income gap in Tennessee. Addressing these issues through policies and programs can help create a more level playing field for all individuals.

11. Encourage local economic development: The state government can support economic development initiatives in low-income areas, creating new job opportunities and attracting businesses that offer higher-paying jobs.

12. Regularly review and adjust the minimum wage: Finally, it is essential to regularly review and adjust the minimum wage based on economic factors, cost of living, and inflation to ensure it is keeping up with basic expenses.

13. Has there been any research done on how an increase in minimum income can positively impact overall economic growth and well-being of residents in Tennessee?

Yes, there has been research done on the potential impacts of increasing the minimum income on economic growth and well-being in Tennessee. Some studies have found that raising the minimum wage can lead to increased consumer spending and stimulate economic growth as low-wage workers have more disposable income to spend. It can also reduce employee turnover and increase productivity by improving worker morale and reducing financial stress.

Other research has shown that increasing the minimum wage can improve the well-being of low-income individuals by lifting them out of poverty, reducing food insecurity, and improving health outcomes. This can also lead to long-term benefits for children of low-wage workers, such as improved school performance and lower rates of poverty in adulthood.

However, there is also some debate about the potential negative impacts of raising the minimum wage, such as potential job loss or reduced hiring by businesses facing higher labor costs. Some studies have found mixed results on whether an increase in the minimum wage would actually result in a significant number of job losses.

Overall, while there may be potential trade-offs and impacts to consider, research suggests that increasing the minimum wage could have positive effects on economic growth and individual well-being in Tennessee.

14. Are there any industries or occupations that are more likely to have workers earning below the minimum income required for basic needs in Tennessee?

While it is difficult to determine precise industries or occupations, certain factors may contribute to workers in particular industries or occupations earning below the minimum income required for basic needs in Tennessee. These include low wages, lack of benefits and protections, and high levels of job insecurity. Some industries that commonly have lower wages and less stable employment include service industries (such as fast food, retail, and hospitality), agricultural work, and some forms of manual labor (such as construction). Additionally, workers in these industries may have less access to benefits such as healthcare, paid time off, and retirement savings plans. Overall, these factors can make it challenging for workers in certain industries or occupations to meet their basic needs without supplemental support.

15. How accessible are affordable housing options for those with low incomes struggling to meet their basic needs in Tennessee?

Affordable housing options vary depending on the specific location within Tennessee. In some areas, there may be a larger supply of affordable housing options, while in others, there may be limited options available. Overall, it can be challenging for those with low incomes to find and secure affordable housing in Tennessee.

According to data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition, in 2020, the fair market rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment in Tennessee was $850. In order to afford this level of rent and utilities – without paying more than 30% of income on housing – a household would need to earn $2,833 monthly or $33,996 annually. This equates to an hourly wage of $16.35 for a full-time worker.

In addition to high rental costs, there is also high demand for affordable housing in many areas of Tennessee. This can lead to long waiting lists for subsidized housing programs such as Section 8 or public housing.

However, there are some organizations and programs in place that aim to increase accessibility to affordable housing for low-income individuals and families in Tennessee. For example:

1. The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) offers a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at increasing access to affordable housing throughout the state. These include programs such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that helps low-income households with their heating and cooling bills; the Homeownership for the Brave initiative that provides mortgage loans at below-market interest rates for active duty military, veterans, and other qualified first responders; and various grants and loans for building or renovating affordable rental properties.

2. The Habitat for Humanity affiliates in Tennessee also provide opportunities for affordable homeownership through sweat equity programs where qualified low-income individuals help build their own homes alongside volunteers.

3. Community Development Block Grants (CDBGs) are federally funded grants that can be used by states and local governments to support affordable housing projects and other community development initiatives, such as improving infrastructure or providing social services. In Tennessee, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency is responsible for administering the CDBG program.

In summary, while there are efforts being made to increase accessibility to affordable housing in Tennessee, it can still be challenging for those with low incomes to secure affordable housing options. More resources and programs may be needed to address this issue and provide adequate housing for all Tennesseans in need.

16. Can education or job training programs play a role in increasing the minimum income for basic needs in Tennessee?

Yes, education and job training programs can play a role in increasing the minimum income for basic needs in Tennessee. By providing individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications to secure higher paying jobs, education and training programs can help them earn a higher income. This can also lead to improved career prospects and opportunities for advancement, further increasing their earning potential.

Additionally, education and job training programs can also help individuals develop skills that are in high demand in the job market, making them more competitive and attractive to employers. This can lead to higher salaries and better compensation packages.

Moreover, by equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their finances, education and job training programs can help them make smart financial decisions to stretch their income further.

Overall, investing in education and job training programs can have a positive impact on raising the minimum income for basic needs in Tennessee by increasing individuals’ employability and earning potential.

17. How do neighboring states compare to Tennessee when it comes to the minimum income needed for basic needs?

According to the ALICE Report released by United Way in 2021, neighboring states had the following minimum income needed for basic needs:

– Kentucky: $22.59 per hour for a single adult, $57.22 per hour for a family of four (higher than Tennessee’s rates)
– Virginia: $26.44 per hour for a single adult, $65.31 per hour for a family of four (higher than Tennessee’s rates)
– North Carolina: $23.79 per hour for a single adult, $61.86 per hour for a family of four (higher than Tennessee’s rates)
– Georgia: $23.01 per hour for a single adult, $56.03 per hour for a family of four (higher than Tennessee’s rates)
– Alabama: $20.21 per hour for a single adult, $50.13 per hour for a family of four (lower than Tennessee’s rates)

18. Are there any non-profit organizations or charities providing assistance for individuals or families who cannot meet their basic needs due to inadequate income in Tennessee?

Some non-profit organizations and charities in Tennessee that provide assistance for individuals and families with inadequate income include:

1. Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee
2. United Way of Greater Nashville
3. Catholic Charities of Tennessee
4. The Salvation Army Nashville Area Command
5. Chattanooga Area Food Bank
6. Mid-South Food Bank (Memphis)
7. Samaritan Center (Chattanooga)
8. Project P.U.S.H. (Nashville)
9. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Memphis
10. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville
11. Tennessee Kidney Foundation (financial assistance for dialysis patients)
12. Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee (job training and employment services)
13. Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands
14. Room In The Inn (homeless services in Nashville)
15. Knoxville Area Rescue Ministries
16.Hands On Nashville (volunteer opportunities and resources for those in need)
17.Stand for Children Tennessee (education advocacy and resources for low-income families)
18.LiveBeyond (medical and humanitarian aid to impoverished communities in Haiti).

19. Has Tennessee implemented any policies or initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and helping residents achieve a minimum income for basic needs?

Yes, Tennessee has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and helping residents achieve a minimum income for basic needs. Some of these include:

1. Employment and training programs: The state offers various employment and training programs to help low-income individuals gain new skills and find stable employment. These include the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training (SNAP E&T), and the Workforce Investment Act (WIA).

2. Medicaid expansion: In 2015, Tennessee expanded its Medicaid program, known as TennCare, under the Affordable Care Act. This helped provide health insurance coverage to thousands of low-income adults in the state who were previously uninsured.

3. TANF cash assistance: Tennessee’s TANF program provides temporary cash assistance to families with children in need. Applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements based on income, assets, and household composition.

4. Housing assistance: The state offers rental assistance through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program to low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

5. Minimum wage increase: In January 2021, Tennessee increased its minimum wage from $7.25 per hour to $7.95 per hour. While it is still lower than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, it is a step towards helping workers achieve a higher income.

6. Food assistance programs: In addition to SNAP benefits, Tennessee also has a Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) which provides food vouchers for pregnant women and young children.

7. Education grants/loans: The state offers financial aid through grants and loans to help students from low-income families pursue higher education.

8.Numbers of nonprofit organizations: There are numerous nonprofits operating in Tennessee that provide support services such as food pantries, homeless shelters,and job training to help individuals and families in poverty.

20. What can be done at the state level to ensure that all residents have access to a livable income that covers their basic needs in Tennessee?

1. Implement a state-wide minimum wage hike: One way to ensure that residents have access to a livable income is by increasing the state minimum wage. This would help low-income workers and families meet their basic needs.

2. Expand the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The EITC is a refundable tax credit for low-income working individuals and families. Expanding this credit at the state level can provide additional income support for those struggling to make ends meet.

3. Invest in affordable housing: High rental costs are a major barrier to reaching a livable income for many Tennesseans. The state could invest in affordable housing initiatives, such as building more affordable units and providing rental assistance programs.

4. Increase access to education and job training: Providing access to quality education and job training programs can help residents increase their earning potential and move into higher-paying jobs.

5. Encourage employer-provided benefits: States can incentivize employers to provide benefits such as health insurance, paid sick leave, and retirement plans to their employees. These benefits can help reduce financial strain on workers and improve their overall well-being.

6. Support small businesses: Small businesses are an important source of jobs in Tennessee, and supporting them through grants, tax breaks, or other incentives can create more job opportunities with livable wages.

7. Ensure equal pay for equal work: Implementing policies that promote pay equity will help narrow the gender pay gap and ensure that all workers are fairly compensated for their work.

8. Expand Medicaid coverage: Medicaid expansion would provide healthcare coverage for low-income individuals who may otherwise struggle with high medical expenses, freeing up more of their income for other necessities.

9. Invest in public transportation: Reliable public transportation can reduce transportation costs for low-income individuals, making it easier for them to get to work or school.

10.I ncrease funding for social safety net programs: Increasing funding for programs like SNAP (food stamps) and TANF (cash assistance) can provide much-needed support for families living below the poverty line.

11. Address systemic issues of poverty and inequality: In addition to addressing immediate needs, it is important to address the root causes of poverty and inequality, such as racial discrimination, lack of access to quality education, and discriminatory housing policies.

12. Expand access to affordable healthcare: Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable healthcare can reduce financial strain on individuals and families and enable them to cover their basic needs.

13. Create more jobs with livable wages: State governments can work with businesses to create more job opportunities with livable wages by providing tax incentives or grants for companies that commit to paying workers a certain minimum wage.

14. Provide income supplements for seniors and disabled individuals: Many seniors and disabled individuals rely on fixed incomes from Social Security or disability benefits. Supplementing these incomes through state-funded programs can help them meet their basic needs.

15. Implement paid family leave policies: Paid family leave policies can provide financial stability for workers taking time off due to illness or caring for a family member. This can prevent them from falling into poverty or struggling financially.

16. Support community wealth building initiatives: Community wealth building initiatives, such as worker-owned cooperatives, can create job opportunities with livable wages while also promoting economic stability within local communities.

17. Reduce the cost of living: States can work towards reducing the cost of living by investing in energy efficiency measures, providing tax breaks for low-income households, and increasing access to affordable childcare.

18. Advocate for policies at the federal level: Some income security measures are determined at the federal level, such as Social Security benefits. State governments can advocate for progressive federal policies that address income insecurity on a national scale.

19.Expand mental health services: Mental health issues often go hand in hand with economic struggles. Increasing access to mental health services can improve overall well-being and help individuals maintain stable employment.

20. Conduct research and data analysis: States can conduct research and data analysis to better understand the needs of their population and identify areas where support is most needed. This information can inform policymaking and resource distribution to effectively address income insecurity in the state.