This labor segment is comprised of temporary workers who stay in the same job for more than a year's time without receiving the benefits that are extended to the permanent workforce.

Criticism of this practice by labor unions & lawsuit plaintiffs accounts for the decision. Twice Microsoft has been challenged in court by long-term temporary workers who wanted the benefits offered to permanent workers.

One case, lost by Microsoft, granted the temporary workers the right to purchase Microsoft stock at a 15% discount. The second suit that seeks medical & retirement benefits is still pending. The new policy limits temporary workers to a one year term at a time with 100-day intervals in between.