NRF opposes proposed independent contractor rule

The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from Senior Vice President of Government Relations David French regarding the new proposed rule from the Department of Labor on independent contractor status.

“The modern workplace is more complex in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Retailers, along with countless other employers, maintain a wide range of business relationships with independent contractors, including billing, facility maintenance, data analysis, delivery, marketing and other critical services.

“The current rules clearly define the difference between employees and independent contractors, providing much-needed legal certainty for employers, employees and independent contractors alike. The changes being proposed by the Labor Department will significantly increase costs for businesses across all industries, and further drive already rampant inflation.

“NRF staunchly opposes a change in this important area of law, which is both unwarranted and unnecessary. This decision will only foster massive confusion, endless litigation, reduced innovation and fewer opportunities for employees and independent contractors alike.”