MADISON, Wis. — Today, Legislative Democrats introduced the “Build a Stronger Wisconsin” package—a package with four proposals designed to strengthen the state’s economy and to improve conditions for workers. The package includes LRB-4295, authored by Representative Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire) and Senator Robert Wirch (D- Pleasant Prairie) that would toughen worker misclassification laws. Rep. Emerson shared the following statement in response:
“In today’s climate of economic uncertainty and rising living costs, supporting the middle class is more vital than ever. The Worker Misclassification proposal plays a key role by safeguarding workers from being wrongly classified as independent contractors. This misclassification allows some employers to sidestep providing essential rights such as overtime pay, minimum wage, workers’ compensation, and workplace safety protections.
“This legislation is crucial to ensuring fair treatment for workers and guaranteeing they receive the full benefits and protections they’ve earned. Additionally, the bill helps maintain a level playing field by preventing employers from underreporting wages or gaining unfair competitive advantages, thereby promoting honest market practices”
Additional proposals in the package include repealing Wisconsin’s so-called “Right-to-Work” law, restoring the Prevailing Wage, and reinstating the use of Project Labor Agreements. All 60 Democratic legislators have signed on in support of the four proposals included in this package.
