Last week, California Labor and Workforce Development Agency Secretary Julie Su announced a new resource website for workers and business on AB 5, California’s new independent contractor law set to take effect January 1, 2020. Remember, AB 5 codified the ABC test used to evaluate whether a worker is properly classified as an employee or an independent contractor. As previously reported, AB 5 is a complex bill that contains exceptions and other tests that may be applied to a classification question.
“This website is meant to be a resource for California’s workers and employers to ensure a smooth implementation of the law,” said Su in a press release. The website includes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to assist businesses and workers with information about misclassifying workers, employee rights and employer obligations.
Additionally, the website will assist employers with understanding the rules for properly classifying workers and provide information about workplace health and safety laws, wage and hour laws, workers’ compensation obligations and payroll tax requirements.
You can access the website at https://www.labor.ca.gov/employmentstatus/.
Matthew J. Roberts, Esq., Employment Law Counsel Subject Matter Expert
Our latest free white paper, A Roadmap for AB 5: California’s New Law on Worker Classification, includes the many exceptions to the ABC test carved out for various occupations and professional services, as well as information on the ABC test versus the common law Borello test, the way AB 5 has expanded the ABC test, the new law’s effective dates, and some final thoughts for California employers.
CalChamber members can access the white paper here. Not a member? See how CalChamber can help you.
