Joco Today

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), recently engaged with experts during a Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) committee hearing to discuss benefits access for independent workers. The session featured Patrice Onwuka from the Independent Women’s Forum, Kev Coleman of the Paragon Health Institute, and Karen Friedman from the Pension Rights Center.

Senator Marshall questioned Mrs. Onwuka about protections under a portable benefit model if a provider fails or misuses funds. Mrs. Onwuka assured that there are measures in place to protect investments within such plans.

The discussion also covered association health care plans. Mr. Coleman highlighted regulatory challenges as obstacles to wider adoption and suggested legislative changes could encourage investment in this area.

Senator Marshall also addressed how portable benefits could match those offered to W2 employees with Ms. Friedman and Mrs. Onwuka providing insights on negotiation possibilities for independent contractors.