Bill > SB809

This bill establishes the Construction Trucking Employer Amnesty Program, which allows eligible construction contractors to resolve past issues with misclassifying construction drivers as independent contractors. The program, to be administered by the Labor Commissioner and Employment Development Department, provides a pathway for contractors to reclassify drivers as employees with reduced penalties before January 1, 2029. Specifically, the bill clarifies that merely owning a vehicle does not automatically make someone an independent contractor, and it requires employers to reimburse commercial motor vehicle drivers for the use, upkeep, and depreciation of vehicles used in their work. The bill defines key terms like "construction contract" and "construction driver" and outlines a process by which contractors can apply to the amnesty program, including submitting a self-audit and potentially negotiating a settlement agreement. If accepted into the program, contractors must pay back wages and taxes, maintain reclassified positions as employee roles, and secure workers' compensation coverage. The legislation aims to provide clarity and relief for construction trucking businesses while ensuring fair treatment of workers by establishing clearer guidelines for employee classification and vehicle usage reimbursement.

Budget and Finance, Justice, Labor and Employment

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB809