SBAM Policy Position: Independent contractors are small businesses, and many small businesses utilize independent contractors to fill roles within their business that do not warrant a full-time employee. Recent federal rules and state proposals seek to restrict independent contractors and force them to recategorize as employees.

Independent contractors play an important role in our economy, both as small business owners themselves and as partners who help other small businesses succeed. I believe we need clear, fair standards so workers are properly classified and receive the pay and benefits they are owed.

Yes. I oppose legislation that makes it harder to be an independent contractor. Independent contractors are small business owners who deserve the freedom to choose how they work and earn a living. Many Michigan businesses rely on independent contractors to meet specialized needs, manage costs, and remain competitive.

In Congress, I led the effort to overturn the Biden Administration’s Joint Employer rule, which threatened to undermine the independence of franchise owners, small businesses, and independent contractors by forcing companies to take on liability for workers they do not directly manage or supervise.

One-size-fits-all government mandates that force workers into employee classifications they do not want, reduce flexibility, limit opportunity, and make it harder for businesses to grow. Michigan should support policies that expand economic freedom and empower workers and entrepreneurs to determine the arrangements that work best for them.