Goldman Mill operates as a democratic-socialist microstate where citizenship is an active commitment to nonviolence, sustainability, and collective stewardship.
Income, Benefits & Service
- Basic Minimum Income (BMI): Citizens aged 21+ receive $2,500/month untaxed. Children receive $500/month managed in parental escrow (audited annually).
- Benefits Package: Includes universal healthcare, free education, childcare, basic housing, food co-op membership, transit, and a standard utilities allotment powered by the state solar/wind-powered electrical grid.
- Citizen Service: Non-state employees aged 18–64 must contribute 10 hours per week to community service (e.g., daycare, gardens, co-op staffing, street cleaning).
Taxation & Residency
- Income Above BMI; Capital Gains: Taxed at 60% up to $350,000 and 65% on amounts above. Seniors (65+) receive a $1,000/month tax exemption on earned/investment income.
- Inheritance Tax: 0% up to $350,000, scaling progressively to 65% for amounts over $600,000.
- Sales Taxes: Standard 10% sales tax (uncooked food, medical, and educational supplies are exempt). An additional 10% excise tax applies to alcohol, tobacco, nonmedical cannabis, sugared drinks, junk food, luxury items (over $1,000), fuel, and hospitality.
- Resident Aliens & Refugees: Non-citizens pay a flat 25% tax on local income, pay fees for public services, and do not receive BMI. Refugees receive support coordinated through the Compassion and Outreach Ministry.
Business & Economy
- Ownership Models: Features State Owned & Operated enterprises, Partner Businesses (profit-sharing with options to buy out state equity), and Citizen Proprietorships (taxed at 60–65% on net profits).
- Regulations: New ventures require State Council and Business Minister approval, mandatory Chamber of Commerce membership, and hiring via the Miller Temps agency.
Youth & Civic Lifecycle
- Voting: Mandatory starting at age 21 (youth vote for State Council starting at age 13).
- Gap Year & Oaths: At age 18, citizens receive BMI and may take a “Rumspringa” gap year abroad before signing an initial loyalty oath. The final oath is taken at age 21 (age of majority).
Environmental & Social Ordinances
- Strict Sustainability: Buildings must meet LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge standards. Only organic/green textiles and vegan leather are permitted.
- Transit & Energy: Private combustion land vehicles are prohibited; state electric/hybrid transit, bicycles, and walking are primary modes. Powered watercraft must use wind, oars, or electricity.
- Zero Tolerance Bans: Absolute prohibitions on weapons within state limits (recreational arms must be stored at the Security Center), violence, hate speech, and illicit drug distribution—all punishable by detention and deportation. Substance use (alcohol, tobacco, cannabis) is restricted to ages 21+.