U.S. Department of Labor Signs Memorandum of Understanding to Promote Contractor Engagement, Compliance Assistance, and Proactive Compliance

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Industry Liaison Group (NILG) to support contractor education and training; enable proactive compliance with OFCCP's regulations; and minimize, to the extent feasible, the cost of compliance by contractors.  

NILG is a nonprofit employer association focused on affirmative action and equal employment opportunity; enhanced communications between the contractor community and various federal agencies, including OFCCP; and its 60 local, unaffiliated chapters.

"Our Memorandum of Understanding with the National Industry Liaison Group will help to further greater engagement and dialog with the contractor community, and lead to greater transparency, more effective compliance assistance, and ultimately more comprehensive compliance by contractors with equal employment opportunity and anti-discrimination obligations," said Acting OFCCP Director Craig E. Leen.

"The NILG is pleased and proud to enter into this MOU with the OFCCP. The agreement cements our commitment to working proactively with the agency to further our shared goals of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. The board is also excited about provisions in the MOU regarding engagement with local ILGs and outreach that will broaden the discussion on how contractors can best meet their affirmative action obligations. We look forward to this new chapter in our partnership with the OFCCP as we work together to advance equal access," said NILG Chair Paul McGovern.

OFCCP enforces federal laws that prohibit federal contractors and subcontractors from discriminating on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and status as a qualified individual with a disability or protected veteran. In addition, contractors and subcontractors are prohibited from discriminating against applicants or employees because they inquire about, discussed, or disclosed their compensation or that of others, subject to certain limitations.