NEW YORK (AP) - New York City lawmakers have passed a bill that protects freelancers from getting ripped off.
The “Freelance Isn’t Free” Act was passed by the City Council on Thursday. It extends wage protections to the millions of independent workers toiling in today’s gig economy.
The bill requires companies that hire freelancers to provide a written contract describing the work to be completed, rate and method of payment, and when that payment is due.
Companies that refuse to pay or force freelancers to wait months to get paid in full will face penalties, including double damages and attorney’s fees.
Public Advocate Letitia James says more than 70 percent of freelancers report being cheated out of payments.
The bill was introduced by Council Member Brad Lander with the support of the Freelancers Union.
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