IC roundup: Landmark Uber ruling in New Zealand, companies settle lawsuits
Uber drivers were declared employees by the New Zealand Employment Court in a case that could have broader impact; California sees multiple misclassification settlements.
Hidden landmines in DOL’s IC classification proposal
An attorney with law firm Fisher Phillips in a Staffing Stream blog post cautions program managers and staffing firms to be aware of a hidden landmine in the recently announced independent contractor classification final rule.
Whiplash: UK reverses course on IR35 reform repeals
Newly installed UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is scrapping his predecessor’s promise to repeal IR35 reforms that took effect in April 2021. How contingent workforce programs are affected.
DOL makes good on IC promise, new rule pending
The US Department of Labor is moving forward with a new rule aimed at determining who is an employee and who is an independent contractor. The department announced this week it will publish a notice of proposed rulemaking on Oct. 13.
IC compliance: Courier company to pay $575,000 in wages, penalties
A courier service that allegedly misclassified 62 drivers as independent contractors will pay $575,000 in back wages and liquidated damages and ensure future FLSA compliance at all its US locations.
U-turn ahead: UK to repeal IR35 reforms
The UK is fulfilling its new prime minister’s promise to scrap IR35 off-payroll working rules. While welcome news, experts urge caution from employers and push for clear government guidance.
Truckers’ AB 5 fight lives on; judge allows another association to intervene
The California Trucking Association’s lawsuit against the application of California’s AB 5 to the trucking industry continues, and a federal judge has ruled that another party can intervene in the case despite the state’s objections, FreightWaves reports.
FTC to crack down on gig economy firms that ‘take advantage’ of workers
The Federal Trade Commission last week released a policy statement that outlined issues facing gig workers, such as deception about pay and hours, unfair contract terms and anticompetitive practices by gig economy firms.
ABC test applies to wage theft cases
The third circuit recently ruled that in wage theft cases brought by your contingent workers, the ABC test applies, JD Supra reported. Pay attention to who your ICs hire.
NLRB to revisit joint employment issue again
The NLRB will revisit the issue of joint employment as it considers the relationship between client companies and staffing firms when it comes to union representation. However, experts warn of concerns if contingents are included.
