Using the ABC Test to Classify Workers: End of the Platform-Based Business Model or Status Quo Ante?

In light of California’s recent adoption of the ABC employee/ independent contractor classification test, this Article provides a comprehensive analysis of the ABC test’s application in the platformbased (gig) economy. After first reviewing the current state of precarious work arrangements, particularly through gig work, and reviewing more traditional classification tests (the common law control test, the economic realities test, and the IRS test) as well as more recent Market Platform legislation, this Article provides a thorough examination of the factors necessary to satisfy the three parts of the ABC test. Since there are almost no reported decisions applying the ABC test to platform-based (i.e., gig) work arrangements, this Article applies its ABC test analysis to consider possible outcomes in future employee/independent contractor classification determinations for platform-based workers under the ABC test. It is hoped courts will not confuse the precarity of modern working relationships with independence.