Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act

Bill 117 HR 6767, also known as the Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to establish a pilot program that would provide portable benefits to independent workers, such as freelancers, gig economy workers, and other self-employed individuals.

The bill aims to address the growing trend of independent work in the United States and the lack of traditional benefits, such as health insurance, retirement savings, and paid time off, that are typically provided by employers to full-time employees. The Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act seeks to explore new ways to provide these benefits to independent workers in a way that is flexible and portable, allowing individuals to move between jobs and gigs without losing access to important benefits.

Under the proposed pilot program, the Department of Labor would establish a grant program to fund state and local governments, as well as non-profit organizations, in developing and implementing portable benefits programs for independent workers. These programs would be designed to provide a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement savings, disability insurance, and paid time off, that can be accessed by workers regardless of their employment status. The bill also includes provisions for evaluating the effectiveness of the pilot program, including assessing the impact on workers' access to benefits, the cost of providing benefits, and the overall success of the program in meeting the needs of independent workers. If successful, the pilot program could serve as a model for future legislation aimed at expanding access to benefits for independent workers across the country. Overall, the Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act represents an important step towards addressing the changing nature of work in the United States and ensuring that all workers have access to the benefits they need to support themselves and their families.