PRO Act: Democrats’ Plan to Empower Union Leaders and Undermine Independent Workers
Mike Rowe Takes a Stand Against the PRO Act
Mike Rowe, the beloved TV show host, podcaster, and America’s most famous freelancer, recently declared a crusade against the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO) Act. This bill, currently going through the U.S. Congress, poses a threat to the financial freedom of 70 million American freelancers.
The Anti-Freelance Battle: PRO Act vs. AB5
The PRO Act’s anti-freelance provision closely resembles California’s AB5 law. In 2018, California’s Supreme Court ruled that most wage-earning workers should be classified as employees, not independent contractors. AB5, the gig worker bill, was born from this ruling and drastically changed labor classification in the state.
- AB5 supporters claimed it would protect workers’ rights, but it faced strong opposition.
- Many independent contractors feared losing their jobs, while small businesses worried about closure.
- The California Trucking Association filed a lawsuit against AB5, highlighting the damage it could cause to the trucking industry.
Despite concerns, California’s Democratic-led state assembly passed AB5, which went into effect in 2020. However, a preliminary injunction delayed its enforcement, and it only took full effect after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review it.
Efforts to Mitigate AB5’s Impact
Recognizing the damage caused by AB5, the state assembly passed AB2257 in 2020, creating exemptions for various professions. Additionally, California voters approved Prop 22, exempting certain companies from classifying their app-based drivers as employees.
Biden and Dems Push the PRO Act
Despite AB5’s failures, President Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress sought to turn it into federal law through the PRO Act. This pro-union bill would override right-to-work laws in 27 states and adopt AB5’s “ABC” test, limiting independent contractor status.
Unions applauded the PRO Act, as it would increase their membership by reclassifying more workers as employees.
Opposition to the PRO Act
Mike Rowe, a chronic freelancer himself, has been vocal in his opposition to the PRO Act. He has shared videos featuring independent contractors who value the flexibility and independence of their work. A survey of small business owners also revealed the potential harm the PRO Act could cause:
- Seven out of ten small business owners believe the PRO Act would force them to close or hire fewer workers.
- Most independent contractors anticipate losing a significant portion of their business.
- Nearly half of all small businesses would be forced to shut down.
- Minority-owned businesses and women-owned businesses would suffer major losses.
Women, in particular, have benefited from the gig economy, gaining financial freedom while accommodating other responsibilities.
To prevent the PRO Act from becoming law, concerned citizens can share Mike Rowe’s videos and contact their congressional representatives to voice their opposition. It is crucial to prevent the nationwide spread of the damage caused by AB5 and protect the livelihoods of 70 million hard-working American independent contractors.
How did Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash attempt to avoid the negative impact of AB5?
5 Backlash
Following the implementation of AB5, various industries and individuals have made efforts to mitigate its negative impact. The PRO Act, now making its way through Congress, poses a similar threat to freelancers across the nation. If passed, the bill could impose California’s AB5-style restrictions on freelance workers nationwide. The bill’s supporters argue that it is necessary to protect workers’ rights and strengthen unions. However, many believe that it will stifle economic growth, limit job opportunities, and burden small businesses. Mike Rowe, who has long been a vocal advocate for skilled trades and the dignity of work, sees the PRO Act as a significant threat to freelancers in America. In a recent Facebook post, he stated, “While I still believe our skills gap is partly a result of bad PR and misguided policy, I think the PRO Act is likely to make things much worse.” Rowe argues that the bill will discourage businesses from hiring independent contractors and instead push them towards hiring permanent employees, potentially limiting opportunities for freelancers and stifling economic innovation. Freelancers across the nation have started speaking out against the PRO Act, concerned about the potential loss of financial freedom and flexibility that comes with their freelance work. They argue that the bill’s framework fails to differentiate between true independent contractors and gig workers who prefer the flexibility of freelancing. Organizations like the National Association of Independent Contractors (NAIC), Freelancers Union, and Americans for Prosperity have collectively voiced their opposition to the PRO Act. They urge Congress to consider alternative proposals that protect workers’ rights without negatively impacting the freelance industry and discourage economic growth. The battle between legislation like AB5 and the PRO Act and the freelance industry raises important questions about the future of work and the rights of independent contractors. As discussions continue, it is crucial to strike a balance between protecting workers’ rights and preserving the flexibility and economic opportunities that freelancing provides. The PRO Act, as it stands, may not be the right solution to achieve this balance. Mike Rowe’s decision to take a stand against the PRO Act highlights the concerns and fears of millions of American freelancers who rely on their independent work for their livelihood. To ensure a fair and thriving economy, it is vital for policymakers to carefully consider and address the needs of the freelance workforce when crafting legislation.
The PRO Act’s Threat to Freelancers
The Freelancer’s Fight for Freedom
Conclusion
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