Self-Employed Paper Carrier Needing to Quit for Medical Reasons

[jbarcus81]

My question involves independent contractors in the state of: I am writing on behalf of my sister. My name is James and my sister is about 4 months along in a high-risk pregnancy. She has been delivering newspapers for our local paper co. for several years. Today her Doctor said she has to stop, and stop now. No more lifting, walking, exertion of any kind. She has been diagnosed with Placenta Previa & Accreta and is at risk of losing both the babies life and her own. Now, here is the issue. She went to the carrier office to give the note from her OBGYN and to say that unfortunately she has to quit. They knew this was coming, just not this soon. And their response is one so unprofessional that my jaw hit the floor. She was advised that unless or until she finds someone else to run the route for her they are going to dock her pay a $1,000 which would be a full 2 weeks of salary. They keep calling, leaving threatening voice mails, etc. My literal question is can they honestly do this? Is it simply empty threats? Can they really dock a 2 week paycheck just because she has to quit? She loves the job, this isn't her choice. Any and all help would be appreciated. If you need more details let me know... Thank you for your time!

[eerelations]

If she is an employee, then no, employment laws won't let the paper do this. If she is an independent contractor (and from your title, it sounds like she is) then the answer is maybe. It really depends on what her contract says.