WASHINGTON (April 12, 2022) – The App-Based Work Alliance, a coalition representing millions of workers nationwide choosing independent work, today released the following statement calling on the U.S. Senate to reject the PRO Act:
“The App-Based Work Alliance opposes the PRO Act because we stand with workers who overwhelmingly want to remain independent contractors. The ABC test provision in the PRO Act would end flexible and independent earning opportunities for millions of app-based workers overnight and wreak havoc on the economy by forcing these workers into an employment model. Despite the fact that the vast majority of app-based workers choose to work less than 20 hours per week and 71 percent want to be classified as independent contractors, the PRO Act would force them into rigid schedules or eliminate their ability to earn altogether.
“We know exactly what the real-world effects of the PRO Act’s ABC test would be, because it’s a word-for-word copy of California’s failed AB-5 legislation that led to widespread job losses. That’s why a majority of voters in 46 out of California’s 53 Congressional Districts voted for Proposition 22 to undo the harm this bill caused to app-based workers. The U.S. Senate shouldn't adopt the same bad policy rejected by California workers and voters alike, especially during an economic downturn when these earning opportunities are needed more than ever.
“We urge the Senate to listen to workers, reject the PRO Act, and focus on creating a permanent solution for the 60 million independent workers across this country who want the flexibility that comes with independent work, while also strengthening their protections.”