Yesterday I was called into HR and told they won't give me permanent contract but another one for six months only, because I was reading employement laws and they are afraid of employing someone who “might be calling somewhere” (meaning either union or straight up work inspection). And she said it just like that, no reading between lines on my end.
She also admitted that they know some things they are doing (including not paying bonus for holiday work, limiting when to use vacation days and not compensating for driving to work) are illegal, but they do them because the owner of the company said so (he is also the father of the company director and hr director).
So guess what I'm doing the second I get new job. And I also know a journalist or two…
Btw, not USA, but Central Europe. For clarification, here we get limited time contracts (3 months, 6 months etc), but only up to two years combined. When you've worked for the same company for two years they either have to take you on permanently or let you go. I've been with this company for a year and a half, it's a pretty safe bet that after another 6 months they'll let me go. And a shame too, because I really like working here. Oh well…