(WASHINGTON, DC – Nov. 14, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta presented the Trump Administration’s views at the Direct Selling Association (DSA) Fall Conference in Arlington, VA.  Secretary Acosta highlighted the spirit of entrepreneurship, which is a priority for the Trump Administration.  

Secretary Acosta also stated the U.S. Department of Labor helps Americans like direct sellers by ensuring a clear regulatory environment. The Secretary underscored the importance of Association Health Plans and Association Retirement Plans to help direct sellers with the building blocks of running businesses on their own terms.

“The freedom and flexibility that have attracted millions to direct selling, together with how technology has enhanced career choices, are driving an even larger segment of the American workforce to become independent contractors,” said DSA President, Joseph N. Mariano. “Secretary Acosta and the Trump Administration’s recognition of this reality and the advance of healthcare and retirement plans for independent contractors are positive for direct selling.  We look forward to continuing our work with Secretary Acosta and the U.S. Department of Labor on these initiatives.”

ABOUT THE DIRECT SELLING ASSOCIATION

The Direct Selling Association (DSA) is the national trade association for companies that offer entrepreneurial opportunities to independent sellers to market and sell products and services, typically outside of a fixed retail establishment.  In 2017, 18.6 million Americans were involved in some capacity in direct selling in every state, congressional district and community across the United States. In 2017, direct selling generated $34.9 billion in retail sales.