The Writers Guild of America has become the latest group to join the chorus of criticism of CBS's Kid Nation. The WGA broadened its accusations, however, claiming that not only were the kids involved in the reality series subjected to harsh treatment, but so, too, were the crew members. WGA President Patric Verrone accused the producers of forcing crew members to work 14-hour days without overtime pay and failing to provide meal breaks. WGA Assistant Executive Director Jeff Hermanson told the Los Angeles Times that reality programs like Kid Nation represent "the sweatshop of the entertainment industry." The guild's charges were promptly denied by the show's executive producer, Tom Forman. In an interview with Daily Variety, Forman said, "Everyone of the crew members -- union and non-union -- were treated well and did terrific work. They had regular meal breaks and reasonable work days."