Regarding Hourly - They Upped Line Rate But... - SGSmt

... it is still not possible to make minimum wage even for those of us who edit VR at lightning speed, because there is no work during many of the shifts (mine).  I've been promised another account, told no other shift is available.  A line rate increase will not help me at all.  They have sent most of the work overseas now, lost a few accounts, and cannot afford to lose all US MTs. 

I am aware of nine others besides me, who have lawyers. Quick, numerous complaints from MTs led to anything at all occurring, but lawyers say this is now an hourly paid service (all criteria met in 4 states), and that the company wouldn't have offered any increase at all if they weren't under pressure.  I can't speak for anyone else, but I'm going through with this.  They fired MTs this week with false reasons; I know three of them, and they were expert level QA/MTs with years of experience as QA/MT, and have been with the company for years, but they expressed opposition to the wage plummet, and we guess examples had to be set. 

We have been told to block the MTs who were fired.  Communication between employees is DEFINITELY being discouraged (via email).

I've included the most recent email we received because I'd like to know who else received this email.  The board member relates that it is confidential, but there is nothing sensitive here.  Names and line amounts have been redacted, but if you want to know the amounts, email me (raised only one penny for VR).

Here is our latest email.  Let's see who gets fired next.  They can shove their penny per line. 

---------------
Hi Team,
 
I wanted to touch base with each of you and let you all know to expect new offer letters tomorrow. 

We have heard each of your comments and concerns in regards to the line rates each of you were offered as it is the same line rate as the top level MT.  

As each of you were in the QA role and have been transitioned to the MT position, we are excited to roll out a special incentive to each of you based on your experience, dedications and level of expertise each of you bring to the table.  We have implemented this production bonus for each of starting 12/01/2011.  

This is confidential and pertains to you as an individual as you were transitioned from QA to MT status.
 
As of 12/01/2011:  Rates will be xx.xx and x.xxx with the following incentive for all QAs offered MT positions:
 
The incentive will be the following:
 
0-1200 lines the editing rate will change to x.xxx
1201 to 2000 the editing rate will change to 0.042 for editing and 0.083 (standard type does not change)
2001 and above the editing rate will change to x.xxx
 
I understand this is a difficult time, but wanted to let each of you know your expertise is definitely appreciated and recognized.

Thank you!
 
Jxxl Cxxxxxs