IMPORTANT DATES
- Jan. 7, 2021 – Trump Administration published final rule on independent contractor classification.
- Jan. 20, 2021– President Biden issued regulatory freeze on recently adopted laws.
- May 6, 2021 – Independent contractor classification rule is officially withdrawn.
Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced it will officially rescind the Independent Contractor final rule.
The withdrawal was effective on the day the DOL’s official withdrawal was published in the Federal Register, which was May 6, 2021.
Background Information
The rule was originally published in January, but its effective date was delayed as the result of a freeze the Biden administration ordered on regulatory changes adopted late into the previous administration.
The independent contractor final rule would have required employers to use an economic reality test to gauge financial dependency in an employment relationship to determine whether workers should be classified as employees or independent contractors.
Rescinding the Rule
After reviewing the rule, the DOL determined that the rule was inconsistent with the text and purpose of the Fair Labor Standards Act and that implementing the rule would have “a confusing and disruptive effect on workers and businesses alike.”
Impact on Employers
The DOL is withdrawing this rule before its May 7 effective date. As a result, employers are not required to change any practices or policies to comply with any new requirements.
Instead, employers should review their employee classification procedures to ensure they comply with existing DOL guidance.
Material posted on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a legal opinion or medical advice. Contact your legal representative or medical professional for information specific to your legal or medical needs.
