Affirmative Action

Affirmative Action

In the mid 60's, the Department of Labor, under President Johnson, required contractors doing government work to present an affirmative action plan that would provide specific steps to guarantee equal employment opportunity including, when there are deficiencies, the development of specific goals and timetables. Affirmative Action is the commitment made to take positive steps to end the under-representation of protected classes in the workplace.

What the Law is

• Affirmative Action is required under Executive Order 11246 for employers receiveing federal contract funds.

Obligations:

• Employers are required to develop a written affirmative action plan for minorities and women as well as analyze and establish goals for identified underutilization of minorities and women. Written affirmative action plans are also required for special disabled veterans, Vietnam era veterans, and other covered veterans, as well as one for individuals with disabilties. These affirmative action plans are tools used by management to ensure equal employment opportunity.

What this Office Does

• The AA/EEO office writes the annual affirmative action plans and determines underutilization goals.
• The office reviews all hiring selections prior to job offers being made.