I live and run a small business in North Idaho. This law was something I have been a bit concerned about. I am not employed by anyone other than myself but I am often contracted by companies to do odd jobs (repair/upgrade machines, solve small issues, work on projects, etc). There have been quite a few NDAs involved in the past which has always concerned me since there is an overlap in what I do and what they do...but now the question is do I as a contractor need to watch for this? Could a non compete slipped into a contract (in cases of tech overlap) cause me issues in my own company? How liable am I as a contractor? Or is this only in cases of employment?

I suppose this is one of those laws I really need to look into. NDA is one thing...but being sued for doing what I already did as a company...or contracting to another company (competitor with differing tech for instance) would put me out of business.

There is a group of people who are putting a lot of work into driving the startup scene to my area (Coeur d'Alene/Spokane) but I feel this may hinder the companies...although...it might be beneficial for the people who are actually folding the cash at the end of the day.

Any insight from those more experienced would be helpful.

edit: Not that it should matter. But my bread and butter comes from remote open source/openhardware projects. The locals are the only ones who have ever required an NDA.