ATLANTA – State Representative Todd Jones (R-South Forsyth), chairman of the House Technology and Infrastructure Innovation Committee, today announces that House Bill 987, also known as the “Voluntary Portable Benefit Plan Act,” was signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp. Sponsored by Rep. Jones, HB 987 codifies a voluntary framework for independent contractors to receive portable benefits through dedicated accounts, allowing contributions without affecting their employment classification.
“This legislation provides a commonsense, voluntary framework that gives independent contractors more flexibility and access to meaningful benefits, while maintaining their independent status,” said Rep. Jones. “I want to thank Governor Brian Kemp for signing this important measure into law. I also want to thank State Senator Shawn Still for his work on the legislation, as well as my colleagues in the General Assembly for their support in getting this bill across the finish line. This is a strong step forward in recognizing and supporting Georgia’s growing independent workforce.”
HB 987 will allow any person or entity to voluntarily contribute funds to a portable benefit account of an independent contractor. The bill defines a “portable benefit plan” as a plan maintained by an independent contractor that provides various benefits, such as health and unemployment insurance. Voluntary contributions may be made using funds withheld from compensation owed to the independent contractor, provided that the withholding is clearly and expressly outlined in a written agreement. The withholding must be voluntary, require the independent contractor’s opt-in and allow the independent contractor to opt-out at any time. Additionally, voluntary contributions from a person or entity to an independent contractor will not create an employer-employee relationship.
The full text of HB 987 may be found here.
Representative Todd Jones represents the citizens of District 25, which includes portions of Forsyth and Fulton counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2016 and currently serves as Chairman of the Technology and Infrastructure Innovation Committee. He also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education, Education, Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications, Health, Judiciary and Ways & Means committees, as well as the Special Committee on Resource Management.
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