Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HR72

Introduced
1/30/23  

Caption

Recognizing the contributions of independent workers and contractors to the American economy.

Impact

The bill emphasizes the economic advantages of independent work, noting that freelancers contributed nearly $1.35 trillion to the economy in 2022. The resolution proposes that technological advancements and changing workforce preferences indicate a shift towards more individuals engaging in freelance work. Lawmakers supporting HR72 argue this trend should be encouraged, as it fosters entrepreneurship and allows workers to navigate personal and professional demands more effectively.

Summary

House Resolution 72 (HR72) aims to acknowledge and support the growing sector of independent workers and contractors who significantly contribute to the American economy. The resolution highlights the increase in independent work, with approximately 39% of U.S. workers classified as independent, representing around 60 million individuals. By recognizing the benefits of flexible employment, HR72 advocates for the preservation of freelancers’ rights to maintain their independence rather than be forced into traditional employment classifications that limit their flexibility and earning potential.

Contention

A significant point of contention surrounding HR72 arises from concerns that some legislation at the local and state levels could impose restrictions on independent workers, potentially forcing them into traditional employment situations against their will. Proponents of HR72 warn that such legislation would undermine the flexibility provided by freelancing, which is particularly relevant given the success of existing laws like California's Proposition 22 that protect gig economy workers. Therefore, this resolution not only recognizes the contributions made by independent workers but also serves as a call to action against policies that could threaten their livelihoods.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HR461

Recognizing the contributions of independent workers and contractors to the American economy.

US HR645

Recognizing the significance of "Chicano Heritage Month" in August as an important time to celebrate the significant contributions of Mexican Americans to the history of the United States.

US HR303

Recognizing the roles and the contributions of care workers in the United States and expressing support for the designation of April 2023 as "Care Worker Recognition Month".

US HR1396

Recognizing a half century of the independence of the Republic of Cabo Verde and celebrating the contributions of Cabo Verdean-Americans to democracy in Cabo Verde and the United States.

US HR541

Recognizing the contributions of African Americans to the musical heritage of the United States and the need for greater access to music education for African-American students and supporting the designation of June 2023 as African-American Music Appreciation Month.

US HR744

Recognizing the month of October 2023 as Filipino American History Month and celebrating the history and culture of Filipino Americans and their immense contributions to the United States.

US SR286

A resolution recognizing the contributions of African Americans to the musical heritage of the United States and the need for greater access to music education for African-American students and designating June 2023 as African-American Music Appreciation Month.

US HR270

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should negotiate strong, inclusive, and forward-looking rules on digital trade and the digital economy with like-minded countries as part of its broader trade and economic strategy in order to ensure American values of democracy, rule of law, freedom of speech, human and worker rights, privacy, and a free and open internet are at the very core of digital governance.

US HR567

Recognizing the accomplishments and the contributions of Vietnamese Americans.

US HR157

Recognizing the Dominican community's presence and contributions to Washington Heights and Inwood.

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