FREELANCERS UNION BLOG

  • Advocacy

Mayor de Blasio signs Freelance Isn't Free Act into Law

Yesterday, November 16, 2016, Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York City signed the Freelance Isn't Free Act into law. This starts the clock on a 180 day countdown until the Act goes into effect.

Designed to protect freelance workers against nonpayment, the Freelance Isn't Free Act mandates contracts for gigs paying over $800, and increases penalties for clients found guilty of late or nonpayment. You can learn more about it here.

Over the course of the next 6 months, Freelancers Union will be rolling out a number of resources to educate New York City freelancers about their new rights; inform clients on how to stay compliant with the law; and provide solutions for freelancers who do encounter nonpayment.

This legislation is the first-of-its-kind in the nation and marks an important moment in labor history as it recognizes independent workers as a distinct group. Freelancers Union hopes to engage with its members nationally to replicate this legislation in cities across the states.

A big thanks to the members of City Council, our partners and allies, and the freelancers of New York City!

Laura Murphy A new soul and media geek, Laura writes about community, poetry and pop culture.

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