Freelance Worker Protection Act

California sets the tone with the Freelance Worker Protection Act. Senator Scott Wiener introduced Senate Bill 988 to protect the growing number of freelancers in California, offering key protections. According to The Freelance Informer, the key points are:

• Mandatory Contracts: Freelancers performing over $250 (€230) of work within four months are entitled to a contract outlining project details, pay rate, and payment method.
• 30-Day Payment: Clients must pay freelancers within 30 days of completing work unless otherwise agreed in the contract.
• Protection from Payment Pressure: Clients cannot coerce freelancers to accept lower pay for faster payment.
• Anti-Retaliation: Clients are prohibited from retaliating against freelancers who pursue rightful payments.
• Double Damages: Freelancers facing non-payment receive double the agreed-upon compensation, plus legal fees.

Although the law has not yet been enacted, its proposed provisions offer significant benefits and, if successful, may inspire legislators in other parts of the world, with implications for the global freelance market.

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