[tedunangst]

Probably because most employees don't know their rights, nor would they be particularly interested in flexing them if they did. Not long ago you might have said that most long term contractors get invited to the company picnic. Not anymore.

[tptacek]

I really don't think this is as cut-and-dry as you seem think it is. There's a downside to being non-exempt. And companies can easily avoid paying overtime.