Investigating the Relationship Between Unemployment Rate and Alaskas Unique Universal Basic Income

Abstract

The distribution of the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) has existed for over four decades. Similar to a universal basic income PFD entitles each Alaska resident to an equitable portion of an annual government allocation. This paper examines how Alaskas Permanent Fund Dividend impacted Alaskas unemployment rate before and during the pandemic. It also evaluates the merits of a universal basic income before and during a pandemic. This paper demonstrates a positive association between the unemployment rate and the distribution of the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend. As unemployment rates increase, the dependence on the additional income offered by the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend or Universal Basic Income becomes increasingly evident. In other words, the PFD is designed to distribute the state's resource wealth among its residents and appears to function as a stabilizing influence during economic downturns. It serves as a financial safety net for individuals experiencing job losses, potentially alleviating financial strain on both individuals and families, and mitigating the adverse effects linked to elevated unemployment rates.