Bill > H4258

This bill proposes to define and regulate the relationship between network companies (e.g., rideshare and delivery services) and app-based drivers in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. App-based drivers are not considered "employees" under certain state labor and employment laws, and network companies are not considered "employers" for these drivers. 2. The bill establishes a minimum compensation guarantee for app-based drivers, including a base rate of 120% of the state minimum wage plus a per-mile amount that increases annually with the minimum wage. 3. Network companies must provide healthcare stipends to app-based drivers who work a certain number of hours per week. 4. App-based drivers are entitled to earn paid sick time based on their engaged hours worked. 5. Network companies must purchase occupational accident insurance to provide medical and disability benefits for drivers injured or killed while using the company's platform. 6. The bill prohibits network companies from terminating or refusing to contract with drivers based on protected characteristics, unless justified by a bona fide occupational requirement or safety need, and requires companies to provide a termination appeal process. This bill aims to regulate the relationship between network companies and app-based drivers in Massachusetts, providing minimum standards for compensation, benefits, and worker protections.