As AI and automation boost the number of laborers in the gig-economy or on-demand jobs, Microsoft says technology companies need to take responsibility and advocate for protections and benefits for workers.

Companies like Uber and Lyft contend that, because drivers are independent contractors and not employees under the U.S.s various labor and employment laws, any attempt to form unions or bargain collectively for higher wages violates antitrust laws.

Employers who skirt employment law will find themselves facing harsher penalties after the Department of Labor has increased penalties for violations.

Many affluent Americans are inundating their advisors with questions about the tax bill. But employers need to pay attention to several areas that may affect some employees' pay and benefits too.