Gave me an offer but lied about the contract status.

Hello, thanks for reading and giving input!

I recently got out of the Air Force and started applying for IT contractor positions in the DC area. I was given several offers and took the best one for me. In the interview I was told this was a contract expansion so I asked when they would know if they got it and I was told that they did have it but they didn't know how many positions they were going to hire because the contract gave them an option.

So I get an offer and accept it. THREE weeks later (a couple of days before I think I'm starting) I get an email from the company telling me that they didn't get the contract.

Being that they told me I was applying for a position and that my offer letter didn't say anything about this being contingent on a bid, can anything be done to them?

Everything worked out or me, I got a better paying job and all, but I know there were other people who they "hired" in the same manner.

Are there any laws against these types of actions?

Thanks.

I understand that business is business, and I'm not worried about my situation, I'm over it. I just feel that the government should require them to notify potential employers that the offer is contingent on a bid going through. In my case I turned down other offers and I was notified three days before I thought I was starting. My offer letter also stated that I was to remove my resume from any job boards and I should stop seeking employment.

My problem is with the people that aren't fortunate enough to be in a career field that allows them to find a position with in a week. Not everything can be fair, but intentionally puting someone in that situation should be illegal.

Just my opinion.

Thanks.

Honestly, I would just view this as a learning opportunity and be grateful for it.  In my previous life, I hired LOTs of contractors.  Some tell their candidates it is a contingency offer, others, just assume the candidates know.  In a few instances, 2 companies proposed the same candidate and I'd have to call them on it.  In my current situation...waiting for a long time for my clearance to be adjudicated...I am looking for some short term contract work until I can start.  I was contacted by SIX companies all wanted to offer me the same work.  Of course, that's not how it was presented initially...but as I said...I have been at this awhile and I know the game, so I asked them....and they said...well, yeah, Company X uses lots of preferred vendors.