A. 9368--A: "Freelance Isn't Free Act"

• Requires hiring parties to pay freelance workers either on the contract-specified date or within 30 days of work completion, and prohibits reducing compensation as a condition of payment.

• Mandates written contracts for freelance workers earning $800+ (individually or aggregated over 120 days) containing itemized services, compensation rates, payment dates, and submission deadlines.

• Excludes sales representatives, licensed attorneys, medical professionals, and construction contractors from freelance worker protections.

• Authorizes the Department of Labor commissioner to investigate complaints, take wage assignments, and enforce provisions; establishes civil penalties up to $25,000 for pattern violations and allows workers to sue for damages, double damages for late payment, and attorney fees.

• Requires the commissioner to publish model contracts in 13 languages and submit effectiveness reports to the legislature every five years; takes effect 180 days after enactment for contracts entered on or after that date.