Issa Introduces Resolution to Recognize Essential Contributions of Independent Workers

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Darrell Issa introduced a resolution recognizing the contributions of independent workers and contractors to the American economy and defending economic opportunity for the millions of Americans that make their living by working for themselves.
 
“With this resolution, we are standing with millions of workers, contractors, and independent freelancers and defending them from the politicians and bureaucrats determined to abolish their jobs,” said Rep. Issa. “Dismissed by some as occasional part-timers, these creative and industrious men and women are independent by choice, fundamental to American commerce, and they need our help more than ever.”
 
Rep. Issa was joined by 17 House colleagues supporting his legislation. The bill is also endorsed by TechNet, the Flex Association, the Coalition for Workforce Innovation, and GlamSquad.
 
“The millions of Americans who act as their own bosses through the independent contractor model embody the entrepreneurial spirit that is interwoven into the fabric of our nation,” said Education and Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05). “No matter when, where, and how they choose to work, these hardworking men and women deserve freedom and flexibility. This resolution offered by Representative Issa sends a clear message to the entire country: House Republicans are immensely proud to stand alongside independent workers. Washington’s ever-metastasizing bureaucracy will not deter us from doing so.”
 
“The Coalition for Workforce Innovation applauds Congressman Issa’s resolution to recognize the substantial contributions of independent workers across the American economy,” Coalition for Workforce Innovation Chair Evan Armstrong said. “Independent work empowers individuals such as students, parents, and retirees to decide for themselves when, where, and how they work. As nontraditional work arrangements become more prevalent, it is critical that our workforce policies catch up to our modern economy to protect those who choose to work independently and entrepreneurially. We thank Congressman Issa for championing this important message on behalf of independent workers across the country.”
 
“Flex applauds the introduction of Rep. Issa’s resolution in support of independent work,” said the Flex Association. “App-based platforms have enabled more people than ever to have the ability to choose where, when, how often—and with which companies—they want to earn income. The overwhelming majority of app-based earners prefer to remain independent to preserve that flexibility. We thank Rep. Issa for his leadership in recognizing the benefits and flexibility of independent work, and look forward to working with members of Congress on both sides of the aisle to pursue common-sense policies that support the independent work that millions continue to choose, even as over ten million traditional jobs remain open.”
 
“The gig economy is driving new opportunities in communities across the country,” said Peter Chandler, Vice President of Federal Policy and Government Relations at TechNet. “Through technology, people are able to work independently on their schedule, start and run their own businesses, and use their property, time, and talents to make money and provide for their families. We applaud Representative Issa for continuing to highlight the important role independent workers have on our economy.”

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Darrell Issa is the Representative of California’s 48th Congressional District. The District encompasses the central and eastern parts of San Diego County and a portion of Riverside County, including the communities of Fallbrook, Valley Center, Ramona, Escondido, Santee, Lakeside, Poway, Temecula, Murrieta, and the mountain and desert areas of the San Diego-Imperial County line. Issa served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform from 2011-2015.