In a report released Wednesday, researchers found that widespread labeling of workers as “independent contractors” has allowed employers to evade payroll taxes, avoid federal and state safety labor laws and stifle wage growth.
Among the findings in the 46-page study, the report said most drivers routinely work for the same employer, are provided company equipment like cell phones and radios and are often forced to rent or lease trucks from the company they contract with.
Contract drivers are paid by the load and are responsible for their own fuel, insurance, registration, maintenance and lease costs, and are not entitled to overtime or health insurance. Dozens of state and federal lawsuits have been brought against companies for misclassifying workers in recent years, including five successful cases locally.