Glossary /
 

Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP)

by | Oct 31, 2024

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is a part of the U.S. Department of Labor that is responsible for ensuring that federal contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. OFCCP plays a crucial role in enforcing federal laws and regulations that promote equal employment opportunities for employees of federal contractors and subcontractors.

Key Aspects & Functions of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs

  1. Enforcement of EEO Requirements: OFCCP ensures that federal contractors and subcontractors comply with nondiscrimination and affirmative action obligations. This includes prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, and status as a protected veteran.
  2. Affirmative Action Programs (AAPs): OFCCP requires covered federal contractors and subcontractors to develop and maintain AAPs. These plans outline specific actions the contractors have taken, and will take, to recruit, hire, promote, and retain protected groups to ensure diversity and inclusion in the workforce.
  3. Compliance Evaluations: OFCCP conducts compliance evaluations of federal contractors and subcontractors to assess their adherence to EEO and affirmative action requirements. The agency may schedule an audit via its scheduling methodology or initiate an audit based on complaints or other indicators of potential non-compliance.
  4. Data Collection & Reporting: Federal laws require contractors to submit various reports and data to OFCCP, such as EEO-1 Reports (detailing workforce demographics), VETS-4212 Reports (on veteran employment), and records related to AAPs. This data helps OFCCP monitor compliance and identify areas for improvement.
  5. Technical Assistance & Guidance: OFCCP provides technical assistance and guidance to federal contractors and subcontractors to help them understand and comply with EEO and affirmative action regulations. This includes conducting outreach and education programs.
  6. Investigation of Complaints: OFCCP investigates complaints of discrimination filed by employees or job applicants against federal contractors and subcontractors. If OFCCP finds violations, the agency may seek remedies and sanctions to promote compliance.
  7. Contract Compliance Reviews: OFCCP reviews federal contracts and subcontracts to ensure that these contracts include the legally required equal opportunity and affirmative action clauses.

Overall, OFCCP plays a critical role in promoting fairness, diversity, and equal opportunities in the workplace for employees of federal contractors and subcontractors. By enforcing these regulations, OFCCP aims to create a more inclusive workforce and reduce barriers to employment faced by protected groups.