Affirmative Action Program Extends to Contractual Workers

Affirmative Action Program continues to evolve in its practice in the United States.  Now federal supply and service contractors can utilize a new process to receive the full support of the Federal Contract Compliance Programs.

This update to Affirmative Action establishes that any company with 50 or more employees and a federal contract of $50,000 or more is required to develop a written affirmative action program for each of its establishments.

Companies are not left to their own devices to make this happen.  The Affirmative Action Program helps people figure out how to come up with these strategies to hire the best people under the best policies. The AAP helps contractors identify and analyze potential disparities related to the employment of women and minorities. Where disparities exist, contractors can use AAPs to articulate specific procedures they will follow and good faith efforts they will make to provide equal employment opportunities.

“The FAAP is back and is better than before,” said OFCCP Director Patricia A. Shiu. “Over the past year, I have listened to comments from the contractor community and employee groups, and determined that this is a useful tool for ensuring that federal contractors and subcontractors meet their obligations to provide equal employment opportunity for everyone. I am pleased to share updated guidance that responds to the feedback we received while also renewing our commitment to ensuring discrimination-free workplaces.”

Recruiters who are interested in following similar practices as the Affirmative Action Program requires for its contractors may wish to follow the new policies outlined in new protocol.