Bill > H5941

This bill establishes a voluntary portable benefit plan for independent contractors, creating a new chapter in Rhode Island's labor laws that allows governmental or private entities to offer benefits that are not tied to a specific employer. The bill defines key terms such as "hiring party" (someone who contracts with an independent contractor), "independent contractor" (as defined by existing state law), and "portable benefit plan" (an insurance or employment security product assigned to an individual and not linked to a specific employer). Importantly, contributions to these portable benefit plans would be entirely voluntary and cannot be used to determine a worker's employment classification. The bill explicitly states that participating in such a plan does not constitute evidence of an employment relationship and cannot be used to establish employer liability for workers' compensation, employment security, or other employment-related provisions. This legislation aims to provide more flexible benefits options for independent contractors while maintaining clear distinctions between independent contractors and traditional employees, giving workers more portable insurance and security options without changing their fundamental employment status.

Labor and Employment

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