FAQs, Myths & Facts About the Anti-Independent Contractor Laws and the ABCs
Here’s a primer on some of the issues involved in classifying employees and independent contractors.
Advocacy
Advocacy
ASJA takes its role as the voice of freelance writers seriously.
This is particularly true with issues of national importance, including censorship, copyright, and legal or industry changes that prevent independent writers from make a living. Generally non-partisan, we do not endorse candidates for office but address issues via statements and press releases from our Board of Directors, as well as statements issued jointly by the Board and First Amendment Committee.
Of particular concern currently are the federal and state legislative anti-independent contractor laws that are already hurting freelancers in California and threaten freelance writers around the country. For that reason, in December 2019, ASJA joined the National Press Photographers Association in a federal lawsuit against the state of California. Assembly Bill 5, which took effect January 1, 2020, threatens to devastate the careers of California freelance journalists, including writers and photographers.
As anti-freelance measures are debated in statehouses and Congress, ASJA has developed its Advocacy Tools for Freelancers. Collected and updated by ASJA members around the country, these resources are designed to help our members advocate for their behalf, both locally and nationally.
ASJA Honors Seven Members with 2021 Exceptional Service Awards
From time to time, ASJA members go above and beyond to serve members and other professional freelance writers.
Learn more
Federal Legislation: The PRO Act
The Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act) would update the National Labor Relations Act (NRLA), strengthening the ability of workers to organize. But it threatens the livelihoods of freelance writers.
State-level Legislation
These resources can help you learn more about what’s happening in different states.
Advocacy Tools
Whether legislators are proposing anti-independent contractor laws in your state or you’re concerned about the federal legislation, here’s how to advocate for yourself.
