Look out, Technical Contractors! They're into your pocketbook again.

The National Association of Computer Consultant Businesses is trying to get Congress to amend the Fair Labor Act to eliminate overtime pay for contractors who earn more than $27/hour.

Typically, a contract programmer, Web developer, etc. paid on an hourly basis does not get Holiday pay, sick days, health insurance or any other benefits. Often, they have breaks between assignments during which time they are not paid. How can anyone think it is fair to treat someone in this category as an exempt employee?

But then again, these are the same people who were instrumental in getting the Tax Reform Act of 1986 passed. They are concerned only with their clients and (mostly) lining their own pockets at the expense of their employees.

I urge you to contact your Congressperson and urge them to oppose the legislation introduced by Rep. Rob Andrews (D-NJ), Rep. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH).

Otherwise, you could be working for free the next weekend you spend finishing a project.

Last updated 16 May 2001