Madison – A proposal authored by Senator Julian Bradley (R–New Berlin) to provide portable benefits for gig economy drivers has passed both the Wisconsin State Senate and Assembly, earning support from members of both parties along the way and marking a major step forward for more than 100,000 Wisconsinites who rely on flexible, app-based work.
The bill, co-authored by Representative Alex Dallman (R–Green Lake), would create a new legal framework allowing gig economy companies to voluntarily contribute to benefit accounts for their drivers – without jeopardizing those workers’ independent contractor status. The accounts could be used to help cover health insurance, vision and dental coverage, retirement savings, or income replacement for illness, injury, or parental leave.
“This is about meeting workers where they are,” said Senator Bradley. “Whether it’s a single parent driving for Uber, a retiree delivering groceries for Instacart, or a student picking up extra hours with DoorDash – this bill gives them the ability to build real security without losing the flexibility they count on and desire.”
More than 88% of gig economy drivers say flexibility and independence are the primary reasons they choose this type of work. However, current law effectively punishes drivers because companies aren’t able to offer benefits due to fears of triggering employee classification rules.
Support for the portable benefits bill spans the political spectrum, and advocates agree: this bill is a smart, modern solution for today’s workforce. With the Legislature having done its part, all eyes now turn to Governor Evers to sign the bill into law and deliver real support for Wisconsin’s gig workers.
