U.S. Department of Labor Resolves Pay Discrimination Investigation At Universal Protection Service Facility in Riverside, California

RIVERSIDE, CA – The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has reached a settlement with Universal Protection Service LP – a federal contractor – to resolve allegations of pay discrimination at the company's Riverside, California, facility formerly owned and operated by Allied Barton Security Services.

During a routine compliance evaluation, OFCCP found discriminatory job placement and pay practices by Allied Barton Security Services – from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2015 – which adversely affected African American employees in its site supervisor positions. Under the terms of the agreement, Universal Protection Service LP agreed to pay $51,351 to 14 class members. OFCCP determined the company's practices violated Executive Order 11246, which prohibits federal contractors from discriminating in employment based on race, national origin, or gender.

"Federal contractors must ensure that their employment practices do not discriminate," said Regional Director Jane Suhr, in San Francisco.

Universal Protection Service holds numerous security and technology-based contracts with federal government agencies, departments, and institutions.

In addition to Executive Order 11246, OFCCP enforces Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. These laws, as amended, make it illegal for contractors and subcontractors doing business with the federal government to discriminate in employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. In addition, contractors and subcontractors are prohibited from discriminating against applicants or employees because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their compensation or the compensation of others subject to certain limitations. For more information, please call OFCCP's toll-free helpline at 800-397-6251 or visit https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/.