ATA Welcomes ALC’s Support for a T&I Exemption to AB 5

The Association of Language Companies (ALC) has issued a statement advocating for the independence of all professional linguists and for the just application of laws in regard to worker classification among language service industry professionals. In the statement, ALC addresses California Assembly Bill 5 (AB 5), asserting, “… it is categorically wrong to change the status of virtually all workers in the industry to that of employees, thereby taking away their rights to work as independent contractors.” ALC calls for California legislators to amend AB 5 by enacting an exemption for professionals in the language industry to restore the freedom of choice to work as independent contractors or employees.

Click to read ALC’s Statement of Position on Worker Classification and the Language Services Industry.

ATA supports ALC’s advocacy for a specific exemption in AB 5 for translators and interpreters.

How can you support the call for a T&I exemption to AB 5?
Do not underestimate the power of your vote. Politicians depend on you to stay in office. Nothing can equal the pressure individual translators and interpreters can bring to bear on their elected officials.

• Get involved in standing up for our profession!
  Start here: What Can I Do about Mandatory Employee Classification Legislation in my State. This how-to advocacy handout is a step-by-step action plan to show you how to present your case to your state lawmakers.The document includes how to find your representatives and sample talking points to use in letters or conversations with legislators.
• Get out there!
  Remember, you have the power. Use it!

• Coalition of Practicing Translators and Interpreters of California
  In September, ATA joined forces with other T&I organizations to request an exemption from AB 5 for translators and interpreters. The Association is now actively supporting the Coalition of Practicing Translators and Interpreters of California to continue advocating for the exemption.

ATA Statement on California SB 875
Catch up with ATA’s stand on the request to exempt translators and interpreters from AB5. Read now.