OFCCP Seeks to Impose New Requirements on Hiring Disabled Individuals

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) recently held a webinar to discuss proposed changes to its regulations related to the hiring of disabled individuals. If enacted, these changes would be significant. The Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis explained that the proposed rule “represents one of the most significant advances in protecting the civil rights of workers with disabilities since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act.” In short, the OFCCP is seeking to enforce a 7% hiring goal for individuals with disabilities. The new rule would also include enhanced obligations for federal contractors in the areas of recruiting, training, record-keeping and disseminating policies. While these new rules are not yet final, federal contractors should be aware that changes may be on the way and should carefully monitor new developments. Parties interesting in submitting comments on the new rules may do so until February 7, 2012. –David J. Sullivan