Sen. Warner Seeks Portable Benefits for Gig Workers

Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) wants to use a government funding bill to kick-start the experimentation of portable benefits for gig workers.

Warner Aug. 22 introduced an amendment to the massive minibus appropriations package (H.R. 6157) that would establish a $20 million Labor Department grant program for non-profits and local governments to tinker with health care, retirement, and other portable benefits for the contingent workforce. That could include Uber drivers, Handy home cleaners, and other workers who find jobs through on-demand platforms.

The amendment mirrors the Warner-sponsored Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act (S. 1251, H.R. 2685), ...