Stockton is one of two U.S. cities experimenting with the concept of universal basic income; the provision of a fixed, no-strings-attached stipend to all. The city is halfway through an 18-month pilot program, providing $500 a month to 125 people from low-income ZIP codes.

Proponents say it’s a step toward economic equality. According to the first few months of data from the experiment, people spend most of the debit card money on food, home goods and utilities.