Independent contractors constitute a growing segment of the workforce, drawn by the flexibility and autonomy of gig, freelance, and contract-based roles. However, the traditional employment benefits—health insurance, retirement savings, and paid leave—often remain out of reach. In response, federal and state lawmakers have introduced a series of portable benefits initiatives designed to provide essential support without undermining the independent status that contractors value. See our blog “Portable Benefits for Independent Contractors: National and State Legislative Initiatives” for more information.