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LEGAL NEWSLINE

Thursday, March 28, 2024

EEOC releases proposed rule on affirmative action policies for federal agencies

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WASHINGTON (Legal Newsline) — The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recently released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that outlines actions federal agencies need to take to comply with affirmative action obligations as it relates to employees with disabilities.

"The federal government has a special responsibility to lead by example in serving as a model employer for people with disabilities in the workforce," EEOC Chair Jenny Yang said. "This proposal offers concrete steps and accountability mechanisms to promote employment and advancement opportunities for people with disabilities, including individuals with targeted or severe disabilities."

The proposed rule’s goal is to make the federal government a model when it comes to employing people with disabilities. The rule would mandate that federal agencies adopt a goal of reaching 12 percent representation for individuals with disabilities and a two percent rate for individuals with severe disabilities.

"This rule can be a game-changer in increasing the employment of people with disabilities in the federal government,” Commissioner Chair R. Feldblum said. “Since 2013, federal contractors have been required to meet goals for the employment of individuals with disabilities. EEOC's proposed rule will hold the federal government to an even higher standard, particularly with regard to hiring people with targeted disabilities and providing personal assistance services."

EEOC seeks comments from members of the public on any aspect of the proposed rule.

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