In January 2020, Governor Phil Murphy signed an array of laws aimed at improper worker classification. These new laws included enhanced penalties for misclassification, broader liability for violations, increased information to workers, and even public disclosure of violators. These laws became effective Jan. 20, 2020, through April 1, 2020. Then, COVID-19 hit, and the world shut down.

In the midst of COVID-19, the gig economy was transformed and grew as a result of the pandemic. As the world begins to reopen, the gig economy continues to be a vital part of the market. It is unclear how New Jersey’s new legislation, crafted before the pandemic, will affect the gig economy, which has proved essential to many in navigating the shutdown.