While Wisconsin’s legislature passed portable benefits legislation for app-based workers (e.g., DoorDash, Uber) earlier this year, the legislation was ultimately vetoed by Governor Evers. Under the law, companies would have contributed a percentage of a worker’s earnings into a benefit account under the worker’s control while the worker remained an independent contractor. Critics of the legislation were concerned about the ramifications of formally classifying certain workers as independent contractors.
Business Takeaway: The legislative history, with bipartisan supporters and opponents, reinforces the ongoing uncertainty surrounding gig economy workers and their classification. While the proposal offered new benefits previously unavailable to independent contractors, it also raised concerns about the potential erosion of traditional worker protections. Contact us if you have questions regarding worker classifications or related benefits.