Labor & Employment (Gig Economy)

This legislative resolution directs the Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee to study portable benefits systems for independent contractors and workers in nontraditional employment arrangements. The study will examine how other states have implemented such systems, analyze potential regulatory and administrative challenges for Nebraska, and consider whether current state laws might block voluntary portable benefits programs. The committee will review options for allowing benefits like health coverage and retirement savings to follow workers across multiple jobs or clients, then report findings and recommendations to the Legislature. This is a research and analysis measure rather than a law that immediately changes how workers or businesses operate.

LB 813 amends Nebraska's definition of "employment" under the Employment Security Law to clarify how marketplace network contractors are treated for unemployment benefits eligibility. The bill specifically changes provisions related to these contractors, ensuring their services are properly classified under state unemployment law. This affects workers who provide services through digital platforms or on-demand apps, determining whether they qualify for unemployment benefits. The change modifies Section 48-604 of the law to establish clearer criteria for including these workers in the unemployment insurance system.