OFCCP

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is a United States Department of Labor agency that enforces equal employment opportunity and affirmative action obligations for federal contractors and subcontractors. Its mission is to ensure that workplaces with federal contracts comply with applicable civil rights and nondiscrimination laws.

OFCCP’s authority comes from Executive Order 11246 and related statutes, including provisions that require affirmative action for individuals with disabilities and for veterans. The agency covers federal contractors and certain subcontractors that meet statutory thresholds and contract requirements, and it provides guidance and compliance assistance to employers seeking to meet these obligations.

The agency conducts compliance activities to determine whether federal contractors and subcontractors comply with EEO and affirmative action requirements. Methods include compliance evaluations, complaint investigations, and on-site reviews or desk audits. When issues are identified, OFCCP seeks voluntary corrective action through conciliation agreements and, if needed, more formal enforcement actions.

Organization and impact: OFCCP operates through regional offices and a national headquarters within the Department of Labor, led by a director and professional staff. It offers compliance assistance resources and requires contractor data submissions as part of monitoring efforts. The agency supports the development of affirmative action programs (AAPs) and monitors their effectiveness to promote equal opportunity in employment.

History: OFCCP was established in 1965 by Executive Order 11246 and has since enforced federal equal employment opportunity laws for contractors and subcontractors, updating guidance to reflect evolving civil rights standards and labor policy.