New York City “Freelance Isn’t Free” Act passes

October 27, 2016 Editor News freelance isn't freefreelancers unionsuccess stories

In a landmark victory, New York City Council has voted to protect freelancers against client nonpayment. The Freelance Isn't Free bill was spearheaded by the Freelancers Union and passed today after a year-long campaign.

It requires clients to use contracts for freelance work, allows freelancers to file complaints with the Department of Labor Standards against non-paying clients, and levies fines against clients who are found guilty of non-payment.

The bill was sponsored by New York City Council Member Brad Lander and it passed unanimously with 51 votes. The Freelancers Union intends to campaign for similar legislation in other cities around the United States.

We did it, freelancers! NYC becomes the first city in the nation to protect independent workers against nonpayment: https://t.co/FjIDwA0YRF
— Freelancers Union (@freelancersu) October 27, 2016

Celebrating passage of the #FreelanceIsntFree Act @NYCCouncil with/ @TishJames & @freelancersu founder & CEO @SaraHorowitz. pic.twitter.com/YuzM9nll3c
— Brad Lander (@bradlander) October 27, 2016

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