Bill > S1373

This bill proposes to amend Section 148B of Chapter 149 of the Massachusetts General Laws by creating a new safe harbor provision for independent contractors. Specifically, the bill establishes several conditions under which an individual can be considered an independent contractor, rather than an employee. These conditions include: having pre-registered as a payroll-taxpaying entity with the Department of Revenue, receiving compensation of at least $30 per hour or $1,200 per week, possessing professional certification or licensure for the work being performed, operating within a federally regulated franchise relationship, performing work that requires significant independent judgment or advanced specialized knowledge, or creating work for which the individual retains ownership or copyright. The bill aims to provide clearer guidelines for determining independent contractor status, potentially offering more flexibility for workers and businesses by creating specific criteria that, if met, would help protect contractors from being reclassified as employees. This could be particularly beneficial for professionals in specialized fields, creative industries, and those operating in franchise businesses who want to maintain their independent contractor status.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1373