Spending on contractors in Iraq on the rise

According to federal documents, "This year, spending on contractors, who protect diplomats, civilian facilities and supply convoys, is projected to exceed $1.2 billion," reports Peter Eisler of USA TODAY. This represents a 13% increase in spending since 2007. The increase is attributed, in part, to the fact that the focus in Iraq has shifted from combat to rebuilding. As Congress raises questions about the safety of relying on contractors and whether or not they have adequate supervision, legislation is being introduced to increase the the legal accountability of the contractors.