The ever-expanding gig economy has brought with it the rise of the independent contractor, from delivery drivers to personal shoppers and dog walkers. Compared to traditional employees, independent contractors are classified as self-employed and do not benefit from a minimum wage, paid time off, or other protections. This kind of work arrangement is becoming increasingly common, with a recent study showing 20% of professionals surveyed are considering switching to independent contract work.
Growing popularity has also raised questions about how to appropriately categorise and regulate workers in the gig economy. In France and the UK, courts have held that rideshare drivers are employees entitled to protections like a minimum wage and paid time off. In the US, states such as Massachusetts viewing rideshare drivers as employees, while in California, a similar proposition failed to pass.
