Among the many things that need correction in our government, contract spending is one of them.  It is out of control and lacks transparency.  So far in reported dollars, contract spending has been $510 billion for goods and services so far in 2008 and is expected to climb another $10-$20 billion as agencies report additional information for the remainder of the year.

US contractors need to be held to the same standards as federal employees and the same pay scales.  Furthermore, much more stringent oversight of contractors is necessary.

There needs to be more transparency regarding earmark spending and legislation that curtails earmark spending and holds it to strict standards and earmarks should be open to public oversight.

The new ethics legislation passed earlier in 2008 needs full and immediate implementation.