On Jan. 10, the UFCW issued a statement in support of a ruling by the U.S. Department of Labor, which clarified who is an employee and who is an independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
“Countless Americans rely on the gig economy’s essential services every day and gig workers need these guidelines to ensure they have access to the same rights, benefits, and protections as other workers,” said UFCW International President Marc Perrone in a statement. “This ruling is a critical step forward for workers across the nation who are erroneously classified as independent contractors, allowing companies to avoid giving these workers fair wages and benefits.”
“Gig workers now have a chance to thrive right alongside the companies they work for with access to the better wages and increased protections they deserve,” Perrone added. “The decision to work more hours, take more jobs, or use an app does not automatically make you an independent contractor and the UFCW is glad to see the Department of Labor affirm that in their classification guidelines.”