H.R. 1319Heading to a voteJobs & the economy
Bill would make it easier to classify workers as contractors, not employees
Data as of July 11, 2026
The Modern Worker Empowerment Act would loosen the federal test for who counts as an employee versus an independent contractor.40-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill would change how the federal government determines whether a worker is an "employee" or an "independent contractor" under wage-and-hour law and union law. A worker could be classified as a contractor if the company doesn't control the specific details of the work and the worker has some business judgment or entrepreneurial risk. Common requirements like safety rules, insurance, deadlines, or legal compliance could not be used as evidence of employee status.
Who does it affect?
This would primarily affect gig workers, freelancers, delivery and rideshare drivers, and companies like app-based platforms and staffing agencies that rely on independent contractors.
Why does it matter?
Businesses using contractors would likely find it easier to classify workers as contractors rather than employees, which affects access to minimum wage, overtime pay, and unionizing protections.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee
- House vote — You are here
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: it's headed for a House floor vote. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it.
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.
Make the callSee how a call works
Official title
Modern Worker Empowerment Act
- Introduced:
- February 13, 2025
- Latest action:
- February 20, 2026
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 431.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.