The Harmonization of Coverage Act, H.R. 3825, would bring much needed clarity to the definition of the term “employee,” and increase opportunities for independent entrepreneurs.
Coalition Submits Comments Concerning Proposed Rule Affecting Association Health Plans
The Coalition submitted comments in response to a proposed rule published by the U.S. Department of Labor that would affect section 3(5) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”). The Coalition is supportive of the proposed rule as it would create a new health plan option for independent contractors by expanding access to association health plans.
New NLRB General Counsel Reverses Obama-Era Initiative on Worker Misclassification
In a memorandum to all Regional Directors, Officers-in-Charge and Resident Officers, new National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”) General Counsel, Peter B. Robb, reversed many Obama-era initiatives, including an initiative to argue that worker misclassification violates Section 8(a)(1) of the National Labor Relations Act (“NLRA”).
Senate Tax Bill Does Not Contain Amendments Affecting Independent-Contractor Status
The U.S. Senate, on December 2, passed its version of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, (Senate tax reform bill) by a vote of 51-49. Importantly, the bill does not appear to contain provisions from two amendments that reportedly were intended to be offered, which would have affected independent-contractor relationships.