WASHINGTON, Jan. 6—Associated Builders and Contractors Vice President of Regulatory, Labor and State Affairs Ben Brubeck released the following statement regarding the U.S. Department of Labor’s Independent Contractor Final Rule, which was issued today:

“These smart revisions are a win for small businesses, free enterprise and economic growth as our country looks to rebuild and recover. We are pleased the final rule clarifies the DOL’s interpretation of independent contractor status under the Fair Labor Standards Act and promotes certainty for employers, independent contractors and employees. Independent contractors are an essential lifeline to the construction industry—they provide specialized skills, entrepreneurial opportunities and stability during fluctuations of work common to construction.

“Bottom line: DOL’s final rule will promote economic growth in multiple industries, including construction, by providing greater clarity to industry employers as to the proper classification of independent contractors and employees under the FLSA.”

On Oct. 26, 2020, ABC submitted comments on the U.S. Department of Labor’s proposed rule revising its interpretation of independent contractor status under the FLSA.