The Legislative and Ballot Initiative Landscape in Massachusetts
he Massachusetts legislature has introduced a series of employment- and labor-related bills that, if enacted, will require employers across the Commonwealth to establish, revisit or revise policies and practices. In addition, there are certified ballot initiatives that, if they ultimately make it on the November 2024 ballot, will allow voters to decide whether app-based rideshare and delivery drivers are independent contractors.
From creating a good-faith defense for employers to avoid treble damages for unpaid wages and accrued vacation pay upon an employee’s termination under the Massachusetts Wage Act, G.L. c. 149 § 148 (MWA), to establishing a progressive escalation of minimum wage for tipped employees, these bills would inform new thresholds and processes for Massachusetts employers.
Below is a brief overview of some notable Massachusetts pending legislation and ballot initiatives that would affect employers:
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/the-legislative-and-ballot-initiative-9588199/