AFP-Idaho Urges State Senate to Pass Portable Benefits Legislation

Mar 16, 2026 by AFP

Boise, ID — Americans for Prosperity-Idaho (AFP-ID) urged the Idaho State Senate Monday to pass House Bill (HB) 645, which would allow independent contractors and self-employed workers to access portable benefits normally reserved for traditional employees. The bill passed out of the State House and was sent to the Senate at the end of February.

The bill defines portable benefit accounts – which workers use to purchase things like life, disability, and unemployment insurance – as accounts owned by workers rather than hiring entities. Significantly, it allows clients and businesses to voluntarily contribute to an independent contractor’s portable benefit account without the contribution being treated as evidence of employee status. By doing so, HB 645 expands access to health coverage and income-replacement protections while also protecting the status of independent contractors.

AFP Western Regional Director Heather Andrews released the following statement:

“Reforming our portable benefits system would be a huge boost for the more than 160,000 Idaho residents who operate as self-employed or freelance workers. AFP-Idaho supports entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency. HB 645 empowers both by expanding access to benefits for gig workers and protecting their independence. A win for independent contractors is a win for Idaho’s economy, and I hope the Senate will swiftly pass the bill before the end of session.”