On the recordMarch 8, 2021
I thank the gentlewoman from Minnesota for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the combined rule and to the underlying measures, including H.R. 842, the PRO Act. We find ourselves today, Madam Speaker, at a time when businesses are struggling just to stay afloat, and in many States, unemployment numbers remain high. The last thing Congress should be doing at a time like this is making it harder for workers to find good employment. But that is just what the PRO Act would do. It cuts the opportunity for employers to make decisions based on what is right for their businesses, takes away the freedom of choice for workers who want to keep more of their paychecks, and makes it impossible for entrepreneurs to operate as independent contractors. Proponents of this bill don't want you to know that the so-called ABC test, based off a flawed California State law and used in this bill to define employment, would essentially abolish independent contracting and upend the gig economy. There is a reason that in the last few decades 27 States, including my home State of Oklahoma, have passed right-to-work laws. We the people want freedom in the marketplace, not a bill that does the bidding for union bosses. I implore my colleagues to oppose this bill and instead focus on solutions that make it easier for Americans to find good jobs in the economy. Mr. DeSAULNIER. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.





