Worker classification issues surrounding gig workers came to the forefront with the passage of AB in California and the current pandemic situation. On the one hand, AB5 forces many California companies to classify gig workers as employees and provide them with the full array of benefits. On the other hand, the recent economic situation highlighted the vulnerability of gig workers, who normally would be ineligible for unemployment compensation as independent contractors. The multitude of gig workers created the recognition of this exposure, and the pandemic rescue legislation (CARES Act) gave them eligibility. This issue is not just limited to California. Other states are pursuing similar approaches. So far, this issue has focused on an all-or-nothing situation. Is there a possibility for an alternate structure?
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