You missed IANAL, and it’s obvious that you aren’t. Your claims here may be true where you live, but they certainly aren’t universally true. IANAL either. But

You missed IANAL, and it’s obvious that you aren’t. Your claims here may be true where you live, but they certainly aren’t universally true. IANAL either. But I do know that in most states it doesn’t matter if it’s your own time and your own PC. In California there are exceptions, I if your work has nothing to do with your employers business. Washington State has fewer exceptions but there are some, IIRC (but remember IANAL). Also, if this project does relate to your employers business then quitting won’t solve your problems. You will need to quit and then do no work on it for six months, typically, to be free of the their legal ability to claim they own it. And regardless, they can still sue you: the six months break just gives you a better negotiating position. If this project has any value, consult with a lawyer.