09 Oct New Bills to Make Uber, Lyft Drivers Employees
Following California’s lead, other states are considering bills to make Uber and Lyft drivers, as well as other gig economy workers, employees. In September 2019, California’s legislature passed Assembly Bill 5, which would change how the state regulates the use of independent contractors. In practice, AB 5 aims to make many workers in the gig economy, such as Uber and Lyft drivers, employees. Currently, such workers are independent contractors. Now, other states are mulling similar bills.
Illinois lawmaker preparing bill to make Uber, Lyft drivers, others in gig economy, employees
Illinois State Representative Will Guzzardi, will sponsored a bill similar to AB 5. Like AB 5, Guzzardi’s bill targets gig economy workers, such as Uber drivers and food delivery app couriers, turning many into employees. Doing so would bring these workers under the protection of more labor regulations, such as the state’s minimum wage laws.
This effort is in the early stages and it’s unclear how much support the bill will have. Either way, experts believe other states will follow California and Illinois in considering bills limiting the use of independent contractors. Lawmakers in other states will certainly be monitoring the reaction to these bills in California and Illinois.
New York considering a bill that would extend some protections to non-employees
New York State Senator Diane Savino says she’ll introduce new legislation that would extend protections to”dependent workers,” a new classification the bill would create. Unlike the California or Illinois bills, this bill does not intend to make Uber and Lyft drivers employees. Instead, it will extend certain employee protections to gig economy workers without making them employees.
Critics say this is a half measure that will not do enough to combat what they say are Uber and Lyft’s predatory employment practices. However, such an approach may prove more politically appetizing for lawmakers weary of radical changes to employment law.
The difference between being an employee and an independent contractor is significant
There are significant differences between being an employee and an independent contractor. State and federal labor law often does not extend to independent contractors. For example, independent contractors are often exempt from minimum wage laws. Unsurprisingly, employers regularly classify their employees as independent contractors. Unsure if you’re properly classified? Read our blog post, for more information.
If you believe your employer has missclassified you as an independent contractor, contact the Khadder Law Firm today for a free consultation.
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