Proposal for a Federal Dividend Program: The American Prosperity Dividend (APD)

Economy
1

The American Prosperity Dividend (APD) program aims to promote economic equity by distributing a portion of the federal government’s annual profits directly to U.S. citizens. The APD will provide each citizen with a yearly dividend based on a share of the country’s net revenue generated through federal investments, natural resource leases, and other sources of government income. By establishing this dividend, the APD seeks to ensure that all Americans benefit from the country’s economic growth, increasing financial stability and promoting prosperity.

Background and Rationale

  1. Aligning Economic Prosperity with Citizen Welfare
    The federal government generates revenue from multiple sources, such as land and resource leases, investments, tariffs, and other federal assets. Currently, these funds primarily support government operations, but distributing a portion directly to citizens as dividends could foster economic security and provide a financial safety net for all Americans.
  2. Increased Wealth Equity
    The APD will promote economic equality by distributing a fair share of national revenue, particularly benefiting lower-income households. By providing every citizen with an annual dividend, the policy ensures that all Americans share in the nation’s economic success and contribute to a more equitable society.
  3. Incentivizing Government Efficiency
    Tying dividend payments to federal profits will motivate government agencies to operate more efficiently, optimize federal assets, and minimize waste. This creates a feedback loop where efficient, responsible management directly benefits citizens.

Objectives of the American Prosperity Dividend

  1. Direct Financial Support for U.S. Citizens
  • Provide all citizens with an annual dividend that boosts income stability and improves their quality of life.
  1. Increase Economic Engagement and Financial Independence
  • Empower citizens by providing them with resources that enhance financial independence, allowing greater participation in economic activities and stimulating local economies.
  1. Incentivize Government Efficiency and Fiscal Responsibility
  • Tie a portion of the federal government’s fiscal performance to citizen welfare, encouraging prudent and responsible management of national assets.

Key Components of the Proposal

  1. Eligibility and Distribution
  • Eligibility:
    • All U.S. citizens over 18 years of age are eligible for the APD. Minors receive a dividend that is deposited into a protected savings account accessible at age 18.
  • Annual Distribution:
    • The APD will be distributed once per calendar year, with funds deposited directly into citizens’ bank accounts or issued as checks. Payments will be disbursed on a specified “Dividend Day,” such as January 1st or another consistent date annually.
  • Equal Dividend Amount:
    • All citizens will receive the same dividend amount, reflecting a fair distribution of federal profits.
  1. Determining the Dividend Pool
  • Federal Profit Calculation:
    • At the close of each fiscal year, the Treasury Department will calculate the net profit generated by the federal government, based on revenue from sources such as:
      • National park fees and land leases
      • Federal investments and interests
      • Tariffs and customs duties
      • Mineral, oil, and natural gas leases on federal lands
      • Profits from federally held corporations and assets.
  • Dividend Fund Allocation:
    • A predetermined percentage (e.g., 25%) of the net profit will be allocated to the APD Fund, ensuring that a portion of government revenue is dedicated to citizen dividends. This percentage will be reviewed periodically by Congress to align with budgetary and fiscal policies.
  1. Administration and Oversight
  • Creation of the APD Trust Fund:
    • The APD Trust Fund will be established within the Department of the Treasury, solely designated to receive, manage, and disburse the dividend funds. Funds allocated to this trust are separate from general government funds to ensure transparency.
  • Oversight Committee:
    • An APD Oversight Committee will be created to monitor fund allocation, verify net profit calculations, and ensure fair distribution. The committee will consist of members from the Treasury, the General Accounting Office, and citizen representatives appointed to ensure transparency and accountability.
  1. Transparency and Public Reporting
  • Annual Profit Report:
    • The Treasury will publish an Annual Profit Report detailing sources of federal revenue, net profit calculations, and dividend amounts. This report will be publicly accessible to allow citizens and legislators to assess the program’s performance and fiscal responsibility.
  • Citizen Access to APD Information:
    • A dedicated APD website and hotline will provide updates on dividend amounts, eligibility requirements, and upcoming dividend dates, ensuring transparency and accessibility.