SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS (March 6, 2024) — Independent contractors are an integral part of the Illinois economy and an essential means of work for many of our state’s residents. Two-fifths of Illinois adults have experience working as an independent contractor, with 14% currently doing so. These independent contractors value the flexibility of controlling when, where, and how much to work.
Today, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Foundation released the results of a recent survey commissioned on independent work. This survey was conducted by Impact Research, a renowned nationwide polling firm. Impact Research sampled 600 Illinois residents to determine their work history, feelings on this labor model, and whether legislation is needed in this area.
“Independent contractors provide consumer choice and help communities that need it the most. Legislation that would restrict the ability to work as an independent contractor would mean fewer people available to work jobs like in-home care for the elderly, construction, personal care, delivery, and thousands of other services.” — Lou Sandoval, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO
Here are the main results:
- Just 21% of Illinois voters believe the way independent contracting jobs are currently handled is an issue that needs to be addressed by the government. This view is shared across partisan lines, including just 31% of Democrats, 17% of Independents, and 10% of Republicans who want to see the government intervene.
"Being an independent contractor with Dragonfly has been a lifeline for me. It allows me to earn a living while caring for my three kids as a single father. I get to take my kids to sports and other after school events because of my flexible schedule” — Emmette Davis, Independent Contractor, Chicago, Illinois
- Only 38% of voters would support reclassifying independent contractors as employees. The 14% of voters in the state who currently work as independent contractors oppose being reclassified as employees the most strongly (63%) and the 40% of voters that have had some previous experience working as independent contractors are also opposed outright (55%), but even those who have no experience working as independent contractors are divided (41% support/42% oppose). By double-digit margins, current independent contractors are also the least likely to agree that the Governor, State Legislature, or local officials listen to their concerns about employment issues.
"Gig work: Empowering single mothers, one flexible hour at a time!” — Aliea Thigpen, Independent Contractor, Chicago, Illinois
- Voters believe that reclassifying independent contractors as employees would ultimately hurt the state’s economy, cost jobs, and result in independent contractors making less. By a 34-point margin, voters believe that reclassifying independent contractors as employees would cost jobs in Illinois, believe it would decrease pay for independent contractors by a 27-point margin, and by a 24-point margin believe it would hurt the state’s economy.
“We help all industries across the economy, from construction, to auto parts, to restaurants, and meal kits. Our platform provides the freedom for gig business owners with an opportunity for their industry vertical. We provide the platform for merchants to connect with the best entrepreneurial logistics providers.” — Derek Beckmann, CEO of Dragonfly Tech Inc, based in Chicago.
- Independent contractors are just as satisfied with their current employment situation as full-time employees. 65% of current independent contractors say they are satisfied with their current employment compared to 64% of current employees, and current independent contractors are more likely to be extremely satisfied (40%) with their employment situation than full-time employees (34%).
“Our economy is strongest when workers have agency in the way in which to best support themselves and their families whether as an independent contractor or a full-time employee. Sadly, this worker independence has been under attack in other states with legislation that would restrict residents’ ability to choose to work as independent contractors. Illinois’ independent contractors demonstrated their overwhelming desire for flexibility to work in a way they control.” — Lou Sandoval, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO
Founded in 1919, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce is an independent membership organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant and prosperous future for Illinois businesses. The Chamber is supported by contributions from a diverse group of businesses from across the state. Its membership reflects all components of Illinois’ economy, including manufacturing, financial services, transportation, technology, agriculture, mining, construction, utilities, and professional services, as well as other local chambers of commerce, trade groups, and membership organizations. The Chamber works closely with its members to support their success and the growth of the Illinois economy through programming and advocacy that promotes and protects the business climate in Illinois and expands economic opportunities for all.
