What happened?

On June 17, 2024, Governor Daniel McKee signed Rhode Island HB 7837, which amends current law on workers’ compensation (WC) to require any person who is considered an independent contractor to file annually with the director of labor and training and removes the requirement that the form be in writing.

What are the details?

This measure explains the requirements for an individual to be considered an independent contractor, and what to do to keep that designation related to workers’ compensation.

Key Bites:

• The notice of designation must be filled annually and for each hiring entity that retains its services.

• Now contractors have a cure period of 20 days to submit the annual filing after receipt of said notice.

• The form can be submitted in writing or by other means.

Business Considerations

• Contractors should organize their records and plan for the report submission on time, due to the requirement of an annual filing, it is important to keep your business records organized and up to date, making the filing process easier.
• Contractors should explore digital options taking advantage of the law and removing the requirement for the form to be in writing. Contractors should explore digital options for filing, making the process more efficient.

Source References

• RI HB 7837
• RI SB 2472

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