Wisconsin Senate Bill SB559

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/23/23
• Refer: 10/23/23
• Report Pass: 12/21/23
• Engrossed: 1/16/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Delivery network couriers and transportation network drivers, Department of Financial Institutions' approval to offer portable benefit accounts, providing for insurance coverage, modifying administrative rules related to accident and sickness insurance, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Impact

The bill also introduces provisions for occupational accident insurance that must be made available to these drivers, providing a minimum of $1,000,000 in coverage for medical expenses and lost income resulting from injuries sustained while engaged in work-related tasks. Furthermore, it establishes a framework for portable benefit accounts, allowing network companies to contribute a portion of drivers' earnings toward these accounts, which can be used for various purposes such as health insurance premiums and income replacement during qualifying events. This inclusion aims to enhance the financial security of drivers by facilitating access to benefits typically granted to traditional employees.

Summary

Senate Bill 559 addresses the classification and insurance requirements for application-based drivers working for delivery network companies and transportation network companies. The primary aim is to define these drivers as independent contractors rather than employees for purposes of workers' compensation insurance, minimum wage laws, and unemployment insurance. This classification alters the legal landscape for gig economy workers, enabling more flexible working conditions while potentially reducing employer liability and insurance costs.

Contention

Debate around SB559 centers on the balance between protecting gig economy workers and the flexibility that the gig economy provides. Advocates argue that by classifying drivers as independent contractors, the bill promotes economic growth and innovative business models, which could lead to more job opportunities. Conversely, critics raise concerns that this classification could leave drivers without essential worker protections and benefits, such as sick pay and unemployment benefits, ultimately jeopardizing their economic stability. The discussions reflect a broader societal conversation about the future of work and the responsibility of companies to provide for the welfare of their workers.