[ajosh]

The US is actually very strict with a variety of penalties for companies that violate the law regarding overtime. The amount of overtime pay and the hours at which it starts are clearly defined.

There are, however, some exemptions for some occupations. Computer professionals, farmers workers, artists, professions (i.e. doctors and lawyers) and managers are all exempt.

It's debatable which professions should remain on this list but the law is reasonably strict with respect to over time pay.