Economy

Lawmakers advance portable benefits for gig workers

Wisconsin legislators passed a bill Wednesday and could be the third state this year to enact a law.
In this Jan. 12, 2016, file photo, a ride share car displays Lyft and Uber stickers on its front windshield in downtown Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File)

State legislators across the country are considering bills that would make it easier for so-called gig workers to receive benefits often reserved for full-time employees.

Wisconsin lawmakers on Wednesday gave final passage to legislation that would allow ride-hailing and food delivery platforms to contribute to a flexible benefits account, which workers can use for a variety of purposes including paid time off, to defray health insurance costs or to save for retirement — while keeping drivers’ status as independent contractors. 

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