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One to Keep An Eye On: H 1234 (Massachusetts)

 

As with many labor & employment law related cases (and bills) being litigated around the country, there are always a few that stand out.  This is one to keep an eye on.


A recently introduced bill in the Massachusetts Legislature, H 1234, seeks to change laws in the state by ensuring that all app based drivers can be designated as independent contractors (rather than employees).

Unsurprisingly, opposition has started to mount to this legislation as workers and labor friendly groups have called for H 1234 to be struck down.  The argument follows that if app based drivers would be designated as independent contractors rather than employees, these workers would be ineligible for minimum wage, paid time off, and unemployment insurance, among other benefits employees enjoy.  However, some drivers have indicated their support for being classified as independent contractors rather than employees.  For one, being classified as independent contractors allows the drivers to control their own schedule, work when they want, and have greater autonomy than if they were classified as employees.

At this time, H 1234 still has a ways to go before we will be able to tell if it stands a chance of becoming law.


For additional information:  https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H1234

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