FSC Releases AB5 Guide, Independent Contractor Tests

FSC Releases AB5 Guide, Independent Contractor Tests

LOS ANGELES — The Free Speech Coalition (FSC) has released two instructional guides to helping adult performers navigate the new AB5 law.

The first is a basic guide to AB5. It explains how the law will require many workers currently classified as independent contractors to be reclassified as employees, and how that may affect adult performers and other industry workers.

"While AB5 could affect any California-based adult worker who is currently an independent contractor, the largest potential effect would be on performers and cam models," the FSC Guide To AB5 states. "Other regularly hired staff, such as members of a production crew, might also need to be reclassified if they currently are paid as independent contractors."

The second guide, the AB5 Independent Contractor Tests, are two brief tests one can take to help determine what their status is under AB5. They include the ABC (California Dynamex) Tests for determining basic labor status and the Borello Test for more specialized professions.

"Because this is a new law, it is so far unclear if or how it will be applied to the adult industry, or to any other industry that uses independent contractors," states the FSC. "It is also unclear how the law will be enforced. In the coming year, it will play out in the courts as lawsuits are filed, and in the legislature. Some industries apply to be exempted under the law, and others may seek to overturn or modify the law."

Visit the FSC on Twitter for the latest updates.

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Final Defendant Sentenced in GirlsDoPorn Case

Former adult producer Doug Wiederhold, previously a business partner of GirlsDoPorn owner Michael Pratt, was sentenced on Friday in federal court to four years in prison for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking.

FTC Takes Another Step Toward New 'Click to Cancel' Rule

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is negotiating the latest procedural hurdle in its effort to renew rulemaking concerning negative option plans, after a federal court previously vacated a “click-to-cancel” rule aimed at making it easier for consumers to cancel online subscriptions.

Pineapple Support, Brazzers to Host 'Navigating Relationships' Support Group

Pineapple Support and Brazzers are hosting a free online support group for performers to build and maintain healthy relationships.

Aylo, SWOP Behind Bars to Host 'Deplatforming' Community Panel

Aylo and Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWOP) Behind Bars will host a panel on creators’ rights and deplatforming on Feb. 10 at 3 p.m. (EST).

Adult Trade Group Pearl Industry Network to Debut at Taboo Vancouver

Pearl Industry Network (PiN), a new trade group for the adult industry focused on content creators, will debut at Taboo Vancouver adult lifestyle and wellness expo next week.

New Creator Platform 'OnlyPhones' Launches

OnlyPhones, a new phone-based creator platform, has officially launched.

AEBN Reveals Ariel Demure as Top Trans Star for Q4 of 2025

AEBN has published its top trans stars list for the fourth quarter of 2025, with reigning XMAs Trans Performer of the Year Ariel Demure landing atop the leaderboard.

Rebel Lynn Launches 'PoleVixens' Through Paysite.com

Rebel Lynn has launched her new pole dancing-themed membership site, PoleVixens, through Paysite.com.

Pineapple Support Taps Athena Bellamy as Brand Ambassador

Pineapple Support has named Athena Bellamy as its newest brand ambassador.

AV Bulletin: Health Warnings, VPNs and Exemptions

Since the Supreme Court’s decision in Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, more state age verification laws have been introduced around the United States, as well as at the federal level and in other countries. This roundup provides an update on the latest news and developments on the age verification front as it impacts the adult industry.

Show More