I don't see anything useful about non competes when NDAs and IP laws exist, other than to restrict the talent pool. I've been bounded by non competes before an

I don't see anything useful about non competes when NDAs and IP laws exist, other than to restrict the talent pool. I've been bounded by non competes before and I can tell you it really restricts your job mobility, especially if you're specialized, since only direct competitors can benefit from your skill. Even harder if you're on a work visa which is linked to your specialization. This is the primary method to keep salaries down in competitive markets. Not a lawyer but sometimes I wonder if they are even constitutionally valid, considering you are restricting someone's freedom to do something in the future.