Pennsylvania Labor & Industry Kicks Off Misclassified Workers Public Awareness Campaign

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 19, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Kathy Manderino today kicked off a statewide public awareness campaign about worker misclassification. The campaign was funded by a $473,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.

"Worker misclassification is a nationwide problem that has a negative impact on Pennsylvania's economy and unemployment compensation fund," Sec. Manderino said. "It creates an uneven playing field for employers who properly classify their workers."

Worker misclassification occurs when employers treat certain employees as independent contractors when they should not be classified as such. This may be done to reduce payroll and other costs.

The campaign kick-off was held outside of the Capitol with representatives of Capital Area Transit (CAT). Bus boards on both the exterior and interior were unveiled on a CAT bus parked on Commonwealth Avenue for the event. The campaign also includes digital ads and radio spots in markets across the state.

The department developed new website content at getclassified.pa.gov that includes links to U.S. Department of Labor information on misclassification myths, and a worker misclassification inquiry form for individuals to fill out and submit. A toll-free number, 1-866-403-6163 (option 3), is available for anyone to call for more information or to have questions answered.

"Incorrectly classifying a worker as an independent contractor causes harm to the worker by withholding rights that belong to legitimate employees," Manderino said. "Our goal for this campaign is to educate workers and employers about the important differences between an employee and a contractor."

For more information, visit getclassified.pa.gov.

MEDIA CONTACT: Sara Goulet, 717-787-7530

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry

Related Links

http://www.state.pa.us