Can my employer legally force me to change from a w2 to a 1099 ?

I am a mover i have tax's taken out of my check every week . which entitles me to Workman's comp or unemployment . the employer is wanting to change everyone to an independent contractor and i don't want to change . because if i get hurt or lose my job i am not covered . my employer tells me that i have no right to file for unemployment because i am chosen not to agree to theses terms . is this true