By Jacob Bronsther & Guha Krishnamurthi.
In this Article, the authors continue their work on a new solution to legislative dysfunction in Washington: optional legislation. Imagine that states could opt in to a new federal program—say, Universal Basic Income or Medicare for All—on the condition that they alone foot a higher tax bill to pay for the plan. States that opt out are completely unaffected since they do not have to contribute funds. As compared to nationwide bills, the authors argue that optional legislation would better realize an array of democratic “virtues,” leading to policies and debates that are more responsive, innovative, honest, and participatory. Full Article.