outsolve insights

In a concerted effort to address disparities and promote fairness in the workplace, the US Department of Labor (DOL) recently unveiled updates to its Equity Action Plan (EAP) for 2023 (DOL press release). Among the notable aspects of this update are specific action items concerning the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) underscoring the agency's commitment to fostering inclusivity and combating discrimination within federal contractor workplaces.

The skills of workers with disabilities who are active in our workplaces and economy are honored during October for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). In August 2023, which was the 33^rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the employment population ratio for disabled people was 23%, which was the highest on record. Comparatively, in August 2021, the ratio was 19.2%. The Department of Labor (DOL) suspects that the increase may be attributed to the changes related to the pandemic, such as greater access to telework and other flexible workplace arrangements that may have opened the doors for many disabled workers. According to the DOL, “despite this positive trend, an unacceptable employment gap remains, and until it closes, we have work to do.”

Resources are offered by the DOL, OFCCP, and EEOC to support employers’ efforts in meeting obligations under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Guidance identifies how the DOL views the PUMP Act and addresses break schedules, space needs, and new poster requirements.

Lawsuit seeks to compel OFCCP to produce EEO-1 reports without considering contractor objections

Funding to address inequities for people with disabilities and ensure access to workforce services

 Contractors may have to provide OFCCP with a complete copy of their pay equity audits

EARN is a free resource that helps employers tap the benefits of disability diversity by educating public and private sector organizations on ways to build inclusive workplace cultures

DOL VETS expands transition program to provide off-base workshops to Veterans, spouses, and Reservists. The expansion will occur in eight pilot locations identified using BLS unemployment data

The interactive webinar will be held on January 26 and 27.