The promotional products industry is full of independent contractors who work as sales reps, designers and consultants. In fact, independent workers comprise the majority of promo’s sales force, and most choose this path because it provides the freedom, flexibility and self-determination they value.

According to the Coalition for Workforce Innovation (of which PPAI is a member), 1 in 5 American jobs is held by an independent worker, and approximately 75% of them do so by choice. Restrictions on independent work severely limit the opportunities and earning potential of these individuals and hamper the operations of the businesses that employ them.

The Department of Labor introduced rules in 2024 that threatened the ability of individuals and small businesses to operate as independent contractors. Enforcement of those federal rules has been suspended while the agency reconsiders the policy, but states like New York and California still have laws in effect that restrict certain kinds of employment arrangements.

PPAI has long advocated for common-sense rules regarding independent work, and the Association supports a legislative solution for long-term stability. The Modern Worker Empowerment Act – an important focus during our LEAD visit to Washington this spring – would provide more a permanent and stable framework that isn’t subject to different interpretations depending on who’s running the enforcement agency.

Raise Your Voice

Now, PPAI is providing an opportunity that makes it easy to share your story and voice your support for the Modern Worker Empowerment Act, legislation that would codify into law some common-sense rules to protect independent work.

Click here to customize and send a brief letter to your House of Representatives member that:

  • Tells Congress why independent work is essential to your business.
  • Supports legislation that promotes independent work arrangements.
  • Asks your Representative to protect the choice to work how and when it makes sense for you.

Speaking up doesn’t have to take a lot of time and effort, and the impact adds up when many individuals join their voices together. Take a few minutes to share your experience and ask your member of Congress to support this legislation that will help protect our industry and its independent workforce.

Please contact Rachel Zoch, PPAI’s public affairs manager, at rachelz@ppai.org if you have any questions.