DOL may Require Federal Contractors to have 7% Disabled Workforce

The Department of Labor yesterday announced a proposal to require all federal contractors to set a hiring goal of a labor force with at least 7% disabled workers. The Department already requires federal contractors to provide equal employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities, but this would be the first time that the Department would identify a strict numerical goal for contractors' disabled hiring. According to the DOL's news release :

OFCCP's proposed rule would strengthen the affirmative action requirements established in Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 obligating federal contractors and subcontractors to ensure equal employment opportunities for qualified workers with disabilities.

The proposed regulatory changes detail specific actions contractors must take in the areas of recruitment, training, record keeping and policy dissemination — similar to those that have long been required to promote workplace equality for women and minorities. In addition, the rule would clarify OFCCP's expectations for contractors by providing specific guidance on how to comply with the law. While acknowledging that 7% is merely an "aspirational" goal, the Department proclaims that the rule would be a "sea change" in its approach and seems intent on pursuing stricter standards in order to improve measurement, compliance, and record-keeping.

The proposed rule will be available for review and comment beginning today. Hinshaw will keep tabs on the comments and other developments.