TITLE: Honoring workers in the gig economy.

SUMMARY: Honoring workers in the gig economy.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, In recent years, workers in the gig economy have played an ever-larger role in the prosperity of the Lone Star State; and WHEREAS, The upsurge of digital platforms has energized the gig economy, which consists of on-demand jobs with a low barrier to entry; people with busy or unpredictable schedules can choose the hours when they want to accept tasks, and the flexibility allows some to participate in the workforce who would not be able to accept traditional employment; in addition, freelance work can help households quickly overcome a financial emergency without going into debt or taking on a long-term commitment; and WHEREAS, Acting as their own bosses, gig workers enhance their entrepreneurial abilities and practice the self-reliance and independence that are core Texan values; freelance assignments enable workers to experience more variety in their careers, exploring new interests while expanding their marketable skill sets; and WHEREAS, Freelance employment can also allow more time for civic engagement; in a recent study, more than 50 percent of freelancers reported being politically active in their communities, compared to only 34 percent of workers in conventional full-time positions; and WHEREAS, In 2018, the gig economy accounted for $1.3 trillion in national economic activity; the phenomenon is sure to gain even more momentum, and freelance workers may indeed take pride in their contributions to this flourishing sector; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby honor workers in the gig economy and extend to them sincere best wishes for continued success. Metcalf Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 682 was adopted by the House on May 27, 2019, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House