This resolution formally recognizes the significant and growing economic contributions of independent workers and contractors to the American economy while expressing concern over potential legislative restrictions on their flexibility.
Darrell Issa
Representative
CA-48
This resolution officially recognizes the significant and growing contributions of independent workers, freelancers, and sole proprietors to the American economy. It highlights the substantial economic impact of this sector, which provides flexibility and opportunity for millions of Americans. Furthermore, the resolution expresses concern over potential legislation that could restrict the freedom and flexibility enjoyed by these independent workers.
Congress Formally Recognizes Freelancer Economy, Pushing Back Against Forced Employee Classification
This resolution is essentially Congress officially tipping its hat to the independent worker—the freelancer, the gig worker, the sole proprietor—and acknowledging just how massive and important this part of the economy has become. It’s not a law that changes anything today, but it’s a formal statement that recognizes the flexibility and freedom that 73 million Americans rely on, and it sets a strong stance against future attempts to force these contractors into traditional employee roles.
The $1.5 Trillion Nod
For anyone who thinks the gig economy is just a side hustle, this resolution puts some serious numbers on the table. It states that independent workers contributed a massive $1.5 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2024 alone. That’s not pocket change; that’s a significant chunk of change that keeps businesses humming, from the local restaurant using a delivery app to the tech company hiring a specialized consultant. This formal recognition validates the work of the roughly 28 million people who rely on this type of work as their main source of income.
Why Flexibility is the New Standard
One of the biggest takeaways is the emphasis on worker preference, especially among younger generations. The resolution highlights that over half of young adults (aged 18 to 26) and nearly 40% of those aged 27 to 42 are choosing this flexible path. Think about the parent who needs to set their own hours, the writer who works best at 3 a.m., or the programmer juggling multiple clients from different states. This resolution recognizes that for many, independent work isn't a fallback; it’s a deliberate choice that offers autonomy and work-life balance traditional jobs often can’t match.
Drawing a Line in the Sand
The most pointed part of this resolution is its focus on protecting this status. It explicitly expresses concern over future legislation that might try to force independent workers to be classified as traditional employees. For the small business owner who relies on contractors for specialized tasks, or the freelancer who values the ability to set their own rates and schedule, this is a preemptive defense of the status quo. The resolution is essentially signaling that Congress supports the freedom of contract and the economic model where businesses can quickly scale up or down by tapping into expert, flexible labor. It even references state efforts like California’s Prop 22, which reinforced contractor freedom, showing this is about preserving existing boundaries that protect the current independent work structure.