Fixing Federal Bureaucracy & Empowering Gig Workers: Big Ideas for a Modern Workforce

In this episode of American Potential , guest Austen Bannon, employment policy fellow at Americans for Prosperity, breaks down two urgent issues costing Americans time, opportunity, and tax dollars: outdated rules that make it nearly impossible to fire underperforming federal workers, and laws that prevent gig workers from getting the portable benefits they need. Austen explains how commonsense reforms—like simplifying the process for removing federal employees who aren’t doing their jobs—could save taxpayers millions and restore accountability in government. He also shares how states like Utah, Tennessee, and Alabama are pioneering voluntary portable benefits programs that allow independent contractors to pool resources for health care and retirement, giving them greater freedom and security in the modern economy. Learn how modernizing these rules can empower workers, foster innovation, and ensure our government works better for everyone. Join us for a practical conversation on cutting red tape, expanding opportunity, and unleashing the potential of America’s dynamic workforce.