I've come across it reading books a few times, someone gets a year or two for a no show gig. What laws are being broken there? I mean , they are private companies so I understand unethical but what's illegal?

Are there special laws tied into union gigs or what? I see the fraud element in it but...

It's considered to be a form of fraud.

it could be considered fraud or embezzlement. Also if the company isnt doing it out of the goodness of their hearts (which i doubt) then it could also be considered extortion

Payment for services not rendered. It is corporate fraud and is a form of tax evasion.

So there must be a complainant besides the government?

think theres 2 different types of no show. most even back in the 70tys 80tys 90tys where just a made guy was on a payroll but didnt work. he would then give back the money from the check it was so he could show proof of income to own house or cars ect. the special guys would have a no show job and get to keep the cash.

The toughest thing about a no show job is deciding what not to pack in your lunch that day.