On August 24, 2018, the Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) issued three new directives, 2018-05, 2018-06, and 2018-07. While directive 2018-05 has received most of the attention because it focuses on reviewing a contractor’s compensation practices during a compliance evaluation, directives 2018-06 and 2018-07 should not go unnoticed.
During OFCCP Town Hall Meetings earlier this year, contractors suggested a return to recognition programs such as the Exemplary Voluntary Efforts (EVE) Award or the Secretary of Labor’s Opportunity Award. Both programs were instituted in the late 1980s to recognize federal contractors for exemplary efforts in advancing fair employment practices and programs. Both programs were ultimately rescinded in 2013.
Recognizing that awards and recognition programs may incentivize contractor compliance, the OFCCP issued directive 2018-06 titled, “Contractor Recognition Program.” While short on details, the directive describes several tools and resources under development:
- A contractor recognition program that highlights implementable best or model contractor practices;
- A contractor mentoring program that uses contractors to help their peers improve compliance; and
- Other initiatives that provide opportunities for contractors to collaborate or provide feedback to OFCCP on its compliance assistance efforts.
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