Executive order 11246 in Affirmative action

Executive order 11246 in Affirmative Action

Executive Order 11246 is the core of affirmative action regulations. The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) enforces this regulation. It is the policy of the Government of the United States to provide equal opportunity in Federal employment for all qualified persons, to prohibit discrimination in employment because of race, creed, color, or national origin, and to promote the full realization of equal employment opportunity through a positive, continuing program in each executive department and agency. The policy of equal opportunity applies to every aspect of Federal employment policy and practice.

The Executive Order prohibits federal contractors and federally-assisted construction contractors and subcontractors, who do over $10,000 in Government business in one year from discriminating in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Executive Order also requires Government contractors to take affirmative action to ensure that equal opportunity is provided in all aspects of their employment.

Additionally, E.O. 11246 requires federal contractors with 50 or more employees and $50,000 or more in federal contracts to develop written affirmative action plans for women and minorities.  This includes two major pieces: a written narrative and a quantitative analysis.  Federal contractors who are required to comply with this law must also follow strict applicant tracking requirements and monitor their employment decisions and practices for potential discrimination.  Covered employers must also monitor their compensation systems to ensure they are non-discriminatory.