House Bill No. by Representative Melerine amends the definition of "independent contractor" within Louisiana's workers' compensation law. The bill modifies R.S. 23:1021 by changing the phrasing from "shall be given" to "have" in the introductory paragraph, clarifying the meaning of terms used in the chapter. Additionally, it expands the definition of an independent contractor to include not only individuals who provide services but also the employees of independent contractors and other independent contractors who contract with an independent contractor.

The revised definition specifies that an independent contractor is someone who provides services for a specified recompense and is under the control of their principal only regarding the results of their work, not the means of achieving those results. It also clarifies that certain activities, such as operating a truck tractor or trailer, do not constitute manual labor for the purposes of this definition. This expansion aims to provide greater clarity and coverage under workers' compensation laws for a broader range of individuals involved in contractual work.

Statutes affected:
HB185 Original: