Massachusetts Senate Bill S1172

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25

Caption

To protect unpaid interns, volunteers, and independent contractors from sexual harassment and other forms of discrimination

Impact

If passed, S1172 would enhance the legal framework surrounding workplace protections, making it illegal for employers to discriminate or harass unpaid interns, volunteers, and independent contractors. This adjustment in the law would allow these individuals to file formal complaints regarding any unlawful practices they experience at work. The bill also aims to provide a limited employment relationship that specifically offers these protections without creating broader implications in terms of wage and hour laws, thereby maintaining distinctions in employment classifications as defined under state law.

Summary

Bill S1172, titled 'An Act to protect unpaid interns, volunteers, and independent contractors from sexual harassment and other forms of discrimination', aims to amend Chapter 151B of the Massachusetts General Laws. This legislation seeks to expand the definition of 'employer' and 'employee' to include individuals engaged in unpaid work, thereby ensuring comprehensive protections against workplace harassment and discrimination for all individuals, regardless of their compensation status. This bill was presented by Senator Joan B. Lovely and highlights the urgent need for equitability in workplace regulations.

Contention

While the bill primarily seeks to provide necessary protections for vulnerable workers, it may face opposition regarding the scope of its implications. Critics might argue that extending such protections to unpaid positions could lead to increased legal liabilities for employers, particularly small businesses. Supporters, however, contend that the risks of inaction warrant these changes, emphasizing the importance of protecting all individuals from harassment regardless of their employment status.