"A moment of ascendance, a period of renaissance" were the words used by Director Shiu to describe the status of the OFCCP during the keynote speech at the NILG Convention in July of this year. With the Obama administration, the OFCCP has seen a restored commitment to the core values of equality, fairness and opportunity for all. President Obama is providing the resources that the OFFCP needs to be the enforcement agency "he envisions". The "ascendance" of the OFCCP incorporates:
- Update of regulations: The OFCCP is updating and revising regulations; "...we are going to put some teeth in them and strengthen affirmative action requirements for contractors."
- The Federal Contractor Compliance Manual is being revised to provide clarity on enforcement.
- Staff increase by 35%: Approximately 200 new compliance officers have been hired and trained in the first national training in more than a decade.
The OFCCP outreach efforts aimed at all employees is also a significant part of this ascendance. These efforts include the clear message that "being a federal contractor or subcontractor is not a right, it's a privilege" and that the OFCCP protects all employees of, and those who seek employment with, Federal contractors.
THOMAS HOUSTON associates, inc. can assist you in meeting the challenges that will arise as a result of the OFCCP's increased enforcement and regulatory efforts. We offer pro-active and proven compliance tools and methods.
