Abstract
This essay proposes the implementation of a federally funded, locally organized Job Guarantee (JG) program in the United States. It begins by discussing how unemployment is a full-scale ‘social psychological’ crisis in the U.S. today. It then pivots by introducing the principles of Modern Money Theory, which will demonstrate that the program is financially affordable. The JG program will have local oversight and administration, and will tailor projects to address the needs of the local community. Many of its projects will be designed to promote environmental sustainability. The essay, then, highlights the economic benefits of the program, which include economic growth and, more importantly, a reduction in income inequality. Finally, it concludes with an argument in support of employment as a fundamental human right.
Keywords: unemployment, underemployment, labor markets, national debt, government deficit, right to work, job guarantee, employer of last resort
JEL codes: J680, J240, H630, H620, J580, B5, E6
