WASHINGTON – The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from Senior Vice President of Government Relations David French regarding the finalization of the Department of Labor’s independent contractor classification rule.
“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. These relationships have become even more important and common in a post-COVID-19 environment.
“The administration is repealing common-sense rules that clearly articulate the difference between employees and independent contractors. NRF vehemently opposes a change in this important area of law, which is both unwarranted and unnecessary. This decision will only foster confusion, endless litigation and reduced innovation.
“As bad as this rule is for retailers specifically and employers generally, it is far worse for the millions of workers nationwide who cherish the opportunity to engage in independent work.”
NRF submitted comments on the proposed rule in December 2022 and voiced opposition when it was released in October 2023.
As the leading authority and voice for retail, NRF will continue to advocate for workplace rules that promote workplace flexibility and economic growth.
About NRF
The National Retail Federation passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail thrive. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies. nrf.com
