AFFIRMATIVE ACTION & EEO NEWS
2025
VETS-4212 Reporting FAQs
Application Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Registration and Access Do I need to register to access the VETS-4212 Reporting Application?Yes. Registration is required. You must provide your contact details and company information. Your request is sent to your company’s designated point of contact [...]
OFCCP Updates VEVRAA Hiring Benchmark to 5.1%
VEVRAA Hiring Benchmark Effective July 30, 2025, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has updated the national hiring benchmark for protected veterans under the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) to 5.1%. This is a decrease from the previous benchmark [...]
OFCCP Update: Clarifications on Audits, Investigations, and VAHBP Moratorium
OFCCP Enforcement Updates The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) issued an email today clarifying its current enforcement posture. This update provides important information regarding compliance evaluations, complaint investigations, and the status of the OFCCP Contractor Portal. Key takeaways from the OFCCP's [...]
2024 EEO-1 Component 1 Data Collection
EEO-1 Reporting is Open (for a limited time) 2024 EEO-1 Component 1 Data Collection Details Opening Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Deadline for Submission: Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Filer Support: The EEO-1 Component 1 online Filer Support Team will be available to assist [...]
EEO-1 Reporting Update
Update: 2024 EEO-1 Filing Timeline and Reporting Changes There is movement regarding the 2024 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection. While the EEOC has not yet officially announced the opening date, documents submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) indicate the 2024 [...]
OFCCP May Revisit Previously Submitted Contractor Audit Files
OFCCP’s New Message to Contractors: “All Reform Options Are on the Table” A recent Wall Street Journal article highlights an emerging and concerning shift in tone from the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). Under the new leadership of Director Catherine Eschbach, [...]
New OFCCP Director
Catherine Eschbach Appointed as New OFCCP Director On March 24, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor announced the appointment of Catherine Eschbach as the new Director of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). Eschbach succeeds Acting Director Michael Schloss and brings [...]
Key Steps for Employers Amid EEOC and DOJ Scrutiny in 2025
EEOC & DOJ Issue New Guidance on DEI Compliance – What Employers Need to Know The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have released new guidance outlining how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, programs, and practices may violate Title VII of the [...]
Key Steps for Employers Amid EEOC Scrutiny in 2025
Proactive Steps for Employers in Light of EEOC Guidance and Increased Scrutiny Given recent EEOC guidance and scrutiny of employment practices, companies should take proactive steps to ensure their policies and employment practices comply with federal anti-discrimination laws while fostering inclusive workplaces. The Wall Street Journal reports heightened enforcement [...]
Illinois Pay Data Reporting: 2025 Requirements
If your company operates in Illinois, you may be subject to pay data reporting requirements under the Illinois Equal Pay Act. This law requires certain employers to submit pay data to the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) to ensure compliance with equal pay standards. Failing to file on time [...]
HIRE Vets Medallion Award
Recognizing Excellence in Veteran Hiring: The HIRE Vets Medallion Award and Compliance with VEVRAA The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has officially opened the application period for the 2025 HIRE Vets Medallion Award, a prestigious recognition for employers who demonstrate a strong commitment to recruiting, hiring, and retaining veterans. [...]
Update on Court Ruling Impacting DEI Executive Order
DEIA Executive Order Provisions Halted by Preliminary Injunction On January 21, 2025, the U.S. District Court of Maryland issued a Preliminary Injunction (PI) temporarily halting enforcement of key provisions in Executive Order 14151 and 14173, President Trump’s orders aimed at restricting DEI initiatives. You can download the 63-page opinion [...]
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility (DEIA): Risk Mitigation and Compliance in 2025
DEIA and Compliance: Key Considerations for Employers Executive Order 14173 has led many employers to reassess their Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) initiatives due to heightened scrutiny and potential risk. While DEIA itself is not inherently unlawful, the way it is implemented can lead to risk, particularly when [...]
2025 Affirmative Action Plan Requirements and Recommended Analyses
Executive Summary In the broad context of employment practices, the repeal of Executive Order 11246 has a limited effect on compliance obligations. The core federal and state laws that regulate pay and anti-discrimination remain unchanged, including risks associated with pay disparities and discriminatory employment practices. Organizations that overlook this [...]
Executive Order (EO) 14173: Common Posting & Notification Questions and Answers
Although no immediate changes are required, Kairos is addressing three common posting and notification questions received since the release of Executive Order (EO) 14173, “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity”. If you are a state contractor or subcontractor, please contact Kairos regarding potential state-level affirmative action requirements before [...]
California Pay Data Reporting Compliance: What Employers Need to Know in 2025
Stay Ahead of California’s Pay Equity and Transparency Regulations As California continues to enforce strict pay equity and transparency laws, businesses must remain compliant with the latest California Pay Data Reporting requirements. The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) has released updates for the 2024 reporting year, and non-compliance could [...]
Upcoming State Pay Transparency and Wage Laws: What Employers Need to Know
With growing national focus on Pay Transparency, states are proposing new legislation aimed at ensuring fair compensation practices. These laws align with the principles of the Equal Pay Act, emphasizing fair wages and reducing pay disparities. Employers must stay informed and conduct Pay Equity Analyses to comply with evolving [...]
Michael Schloss Appointed Acting Director of OFCCP Amid Agency Transition
Michael Schloss has been appointed as the Acting Director and Deputy Director for Policy at the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). Prior to this role, Schloss had a distinguished 32-year tenure with the U.S. Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA), where he most recently served [...]
Massachusetts – 2025 Pay Data Reporting Deadline Approaching
This is a critical reminder for all employers with employees in Massachusetts regarding the upcoming Massachusetts Pay Data Reporting deadline. The reporting portal opened on January 16, 2025, and reports must be submitted no later than February 3, 2025 (the statutory deadline is February 1, but it has been [...]
Required Federal & State Reporting – 2025
Following the recent changes introduced by the administration, here is a summary of what’s changed and what stays the same regarding OFCCP, VETS, and EEOC, and how Kairos will continue to meet your compliance needs. Federal and State Reporting Requirements The following are required reports and AAPs (if applicable): [...]
Responding to Executive Order “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity”
We understand you may be receiving a surge of emails and inquiries in light of the recent Executive Order, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, which rescinded Executive Order 11246. Some of these messages may include claims or implications that DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) initiatives or [...]
Executive Order 11246 Rescinded, Disability, Veteran, and Other Regulations Still Apply!
Executive Order 11246 Rescinded: Disability and Veteran Regulations Remain Enforceable by OFCCP Today, the White House released a new executive order titled Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity. While this executive order signals significant changes, including the rescission of Executive Order 11246, it currently allows federal contractors to [...]
California Pay Data Reporting
California’s Pay Data Reporting: What Employers Need to Know in 2025 California is setting the pace for pay transparency and equity with its Pay Data Reporting requirements. These regulations aim to ensure fair pay practices and eliminate wage gaps based on gender, race, and ethnicity. Employers must stay [...]
Honoring Dr. King: Advancing Equal Employment Opportunity
Celebrating Dr. King’s Legacy by Fostering Equal Employment Opportunities in the Workplace As we prepare to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we are reminded of our collective responsibility to build workplaces where all employees and applicants are provided with equal employment opportunity. Creating the virtuous employment cycle begins [...]
OFCCP – Corporate Scheduling Announcement List (CSAL) Updates
OFCCP Audit Update AUDIT Update - OFCCP has begun scheduling audits from the November 2024 CSAL. Kairos estimates OFCCP has scheduled nearly 70% of the reviews from the June 2024 CSAL, and nearly all of the September 2023 CSAL. The Corporate Scheduling Announcement List (CSAL) is a "heads [...]
2025 Government Compliance Report Reminder
Summary of Federal Contractor Annual Compliance Reports Happy New Year! Kairos Services Inc. is delighted to have you as a valued customer for another year. As we step into 2025, we want to remind you of the annual reporting requirements for federal contractors: AAP (Affirmative Action Program): Due [...]
2024
Merry Christmas from all of us at Kairos Services!
Warm Holiday Greetings to You and Your Loved Ones During this holiday season, we want to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude for the trust and confidence you place in us. We are truly honored to serve as your partner in achieving 100% compliance, and we never [...]
2025 Minimum Wage Increase for Contracts Covered by Executive Order 14026
Notice of Annual Increase Each year, the Department of Labor publishes notices of wage rates associated with work covered by federal contracts. Most recently, Executive Order (EO) 14026 details an increase in these wage rates, along with certain exemptions. Effective January 1, 2025, the minimum wage for federal [...]
Honoring Our Heroes: A Veterans Day Tribute to Resilience and Valor
On Veterans Day, Kairos Services pays tribute to our nation's veterans, recognizing their dedication and the sacrifices they’ve made to safeguard our freedoms and protect the rights of people worldwide. We extend our heartfelt thanks to those who have served and continue to serve, often making significant personal sacrifices [...]
EEO-1 Data Disclosure
EEO-1 Data Disclosure: What Federal Contractors Need to Know About New FOIA Requests and Legal Implications Federal contractors face renewed attention on workforce demographics following the recent publication of a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) notice by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs [...]
2024 National Industry Liaison Group Conference
Kairos experts Nicolas Paul and Will Waymel thoroughly enjoyed presenting the following sessions this week at the National Industry Liaison Group NILG 2025 National Conference in Orlando: “AAP History, Laws & First Data Steps” “AAP Reports: Metrics & Analysis” “Drilling Down into AAP Data” Be sure to join us [...]
OFCCP – Corporate Scheduling Announcement List Updates
June 2024 CSAL Kairos estimates OFCCP has only scheduled close to 5% of the reviews from the June 2024 CSAL. September 2023 CSAL Kairos estimates OFCCP has only scheduled close to 65% of the reviews from the September 2023 CSAL. [...]
3 Ways To Design a Work Culture of Pay Equity
Crafting a Workplace Ethos of Equal Compensation: Strategies Beyond EEOC and OFCCP Guidelines In the tapestry of modern corporate culture, weaving a thread of equal compensation is not merely a gesture of integrity but a cornerstone of organizational success. It mirrors a company’s dedication to justice, diversity, and [...]
Tips for Writing a Gender-Neutral Employee Policy
Crafting a Gender-Neutral Workplace: Essential Tips for Inclusive Employee Policies In today’s progressive work environment, fostering inclusivity and diversity is not just a moral obligation but also a strategic advantage. The creation of a gender-neutral employee policy stands as a testament to a company's commitment to ensuring a [...]
OFCCP Contractor Portal – How and When You Should Certify
OFCCP Contractor Portal Certification: April 1 – July 1, 2024 The OFCCP Contractor Portal opens April 1, 2024. You must certify compliance no later than the date in the chart below that corresponds to your AAP start date. Do not miss the deadline—certification is crucial to avoid potential [...]
What You Should Know About Record Retention Requirements
Ultimate Guide to OFCCP Recordkeeping: Boosting Compliance for Affirmative Action In the realm of federal contracting, adherence to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) recordkeeping requirements is crucial for contractors to ensure compliance and foster a workplace environment that is inclusive and equitable. The OFCCP's guidelines [...]
EEO-1 Component 1 Report Updates (Due June 4, 2024)
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has announced important dates and resources for the submission of this year's report. Please review the information below carefully to ensure your organization is prepared and compliant. 2023 EEO-1 Component 1 Data Collection Details Opening Date: The data [...]
Common Pitfalls in OFCCP Affirmative Action Compliance Audits and How To Avoid Them
Affirmative Action Compliance Audits In the complex and ever-evolving world of compliance, the preparation and maintenance of an Affirmative Action Plan (AAP) can be a challenging task for any organization. Federal contractors and subcontractors must adhere to the regulations enforced by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs [...]
OFCCP Violations and How To Avoid Them
OFCCP Audit Violations from Q1 2024 (October 1- December 31, 2023) Dealing with the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) audits can be a daunting task for any business. The recent data from the first quarter of FY 2024 shows an interesting trend in OFCCP compliance evaluations and [...]
Understanding the Impact of the Recent Court Decision on EEO-1 Type 2 Data Disclosure
Type 2 EEO-1 Consolidated Report Release As an Affirmative Action Compliance organization, we are committed to keeping our clients and the broader contractor community informed about significant legal developments that may impact your operations. Today, we delve into a critical court ruling that centers around the disclosure of [...]
Federal Contractor Reports to File in 2024
EEO-1 Report: Due June 4, 2024 (Date Subject to Change) The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has not yet announced the 2023 EEO-1 data collection Portal will opening date (Update: April 30, 2024). However, the traditional due date is March 31. Employers can access the dedicated online portal for [...]
California Pay Data Reporting
Update on 2023 California Pay Data Reporting Requirements In the realm of Affirmative Action Compliance, staying updated with reporting requirements is crucial for businesses. One such critical update pertains to the 2023 California Pay Data Reporting, which has a looming deadline. Key Deadline [...]
2022 EEO-1 Report Update: Report Deadline Extended to Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
Federal Contractors Now Have Until Tuesday, January 9, 2024, to File their 2022 EEO-1 Report The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced the opening of the 2022 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection to be completed no later than Jan. 9, 2024. To meet this deadline, the EEOC [...]
Honoring Our Heroes: A Veterans Day Tribute to Resilience and Valor
This weekend, as we observe Veterans Day, let's take a heartfelt moment to honor the men and women who have bravely served our country. These individuals have faced immense challenges and emerged with a resilience that continues to inspire us all. Their stories are not just [...]
2022 EEO-1 Report Update: Important Dates, Resources, and Common Mistakes
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced the opening of the 2022 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection to be completed no later than Dec. 5, 2023. To meet this deadline, the EEOC strongly encourages eligible filers to begin the filing process as soon as possible. Key Dates Opening [...]
EEO-1 Report Filing Deadline for 2022: Key Updates and Changes
EEO-1 Portal Opening Soon The world of affirmative action and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) reporting is ever evolving, and 2023 is no exception. Here is a comprehensive guide to the recent announcements by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) concerning the 2022 EEO-1 report. [...]
The Job Search Engine ‘Quick Apply’ Self-Identification Trap
Identifying and Correcting Recordkeeping Violations Created via Applicant Tracking System Integrations If your company accepts applications from job search engines such as LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, Indeed, CareerBuilder, Monster, Simply Hired, or others, please read this urgent message. Search Engine Applications Missing Required Voluntary Self-Identification Forms [...]
Important Takeaways from the NILG 2023 National ILG Conference
Kairos staff have returned from the 2023 National ILG Conference in Phoenix, AZ. This annual conference provides an opportunity for professionals to come together to learn about the latest developments, best practices, and regulatory updates related to workplace compliance. Kairos would like to share with you a few of [...]
2023 NILG National Conference
Kairos management team member Nick Paul was selected to present at the 2023 National Industry Liaison Group (NILG) Conference to being held next week in Phoenix, AZ. The NILG Conference is the ‘must attend’ conference for those involved in affirmative action, equal employment opportunity, and diversity & inclusion. Kairos’ [...]
Supreme Court Ruling on Universities (Admissions) vs Federal Contractors (Employment)
Affirmative Action in University Admissions vs Employment The Supreme Court's June 29th 6-3 ruling ended the decades-old practice of race consideration in university admissions. This has led Kairos to address questions distinguishing affirmative action in higher education and employment. Despite sharing the same terminology, “affirmative action” implemented by [...]
2023 Mega Construction Designees
OFCCP Releases Fiscal Year 2023 Mega Construction Program Designees The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has recently renewed its focus on construction contractor audits, signaling an increased commitment to enforcing equal employment opportunity and affirmative action regulations within the industry. Contractors working on federally-funded construction projects [...]
Don’t Miss the Deadline: Federal Contractors Must Certify AAP Compliance by June 29, 2023
OFCCP Contractor Portal Opens March 31 Through June 29, 2023 The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is opening the Contractor Portal on March 31, 2023. You must certify compliance no later than June 29, 2023. Don't miss the deadline—certification is crucial to avoid potential complications, including [...]
OFCCP Megaproject
A better understanding of the program's goal The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has launched its Mega Construction Project (Megaproject) Program. The program is an initiative within the agency’s broader construction enforcement and outreach program to promote equitable hiring and fair workplaces [...]
Ensuring Online Job Postings are Compliant and Accessible to Individuals With Disabilities
Creating Accessible Online Job Postings for Individuals with Disabilities There are several steps that employers can take to ensure their online job postings are compliant and accessible to individuals with disabilities: Provide alternative formats: Offer alternative formats such as large print, audio recordings, or Braille for individuals with visual [...]
Kairos Celebrates Women’s History Month
In Honor of Women's History Month March 1st marks the start of Women's History Month! This is a time to honor and celebrate the contributions and achievements of women throughout history. All the trailblazers of the past and today breaking barriers in their fields, women have played a [...]
Veteran Inclusion and Increasing Veteran Self-Identification
Practices for Veteran Inclusion and Increasing Veteran Self-Identification One of the best ways to increase veteran inclusion in your company is to actively seek out qualified veteran candidates for open positions. This can be done through partnerships with organizations that focus on helping veterans transition into the civilian [...]
Auditing Your Applicant Screening Process
Reasons Employers Should Audit Their Applicant Screening Process Federal contractors should audit their applicant screening process to ensure that it is in compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Non-compliance with these laws and regulations can result in significant legal and financial consequences for employers. An applicant screening process [...]
OFCCP Compensation Analyses
Background The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is responsible for enforcing the regulations and guidelines that ensure that federal contractors and subcontractors do not discriminate against any protected groups in their employment practices. One of the key areas that the OFCCP focuses on [...]
HR Compliance Training
The Importance of HR Compliance Training HR compliance training is important because it helps to ensure that HR professionals and other employees have the knowledge and skills they need to comply with relevant laws and regulations. Non-compliance with these laws and regulations can result in significant legal and [...]
Affirmative Action Reduces Risk for Your Company
5 Ways Affirmative Action Reduces Risk for Your Company Affirmative action can help reduce risk for your company in several ways. First, by implementing an affirmative action plan, your company is taking proactive steps to ensure that your workforce is representative of the diverse population [...]
Kairos Celebrates Black History Month
In Honor of Black History Month Kairos is proud to celebrate and pay tribute to the invaluable contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history. From the civil rights movement to the ongoing fight for equality, this month provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and [...]
Administrative Closures Being Issued for Companies Who Certified in the Contractor Portal
Contractors Who Certified in OFCCP Contractor Portal by 12/1/22 Eligible for Administrative Closures Kairos has confirmed that the OFCCP will remove certified establishments from the Corporate Scheduling Announcement List (CSAL) who certified their establishment(s) in the Contractor Portal as of December 1, 2022. OFCCP indicated in their CSAL [...]
EEO-1 and California Pay Report Updates
The EEOC issued an update on the 2022 EEO-1 report. The online portal will open mid-July 2023. Additional updates will be posted to www.eeocdata.org/eeo1 as they become available. The deadline for filing the 2022 California Pay Data Report is May 10, 2023. Additional updates will be [...]
Audit Proofing Your Compensation System
Summary of the Issue Federal contractors are required to maintain certain records related to compensation decisions in order to comply with relevant laws and regulations. These records can include information such as the applicant’s qualifications and the reasons for any compensation decisions, as well as [...]
OFCCP Publishes New Corporate Scheduling Announcement List
OFCCP just released the Corporate Scheduling Announcement List (CSAL) in the OFCCP Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Library found at this link. CSAL notifies establishments that they will undergo a compliance audit, likely in the current scheduling cycle. Five hundred (500) companies were included in [...]
Inclusive Job Postings
Kairos regularly receives requests for best practices related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The following best practices and diversity language examples are meant to provide you easy to follow guidance to assist with job postings, career sites, and social media. Best Practices Use [...]
A New Year –> A New AAP
What are some best practices I should undertake at the start of every year for my affirmative action program? There are several best practices that you can follow at the start of every year to ensure the effectiveness and compliance of your affirmative action program. [...]
Happy New Year!
As the new year approaches, we wanted to take a moment to thank you for your business and to wish you a happy and prosperous new year. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to continuing to support you in the [...]
Merry Christmas
Twas the end of another AAP year And HR had outsourced it having no fear. Now they were planning the holiday party with all their might knowing full well their AAP would be all right. But then Ms. CEO rushed in and there arose such a chatter! HR sprung from their [...]
Kairos Wishes You and Your Family a Happy Thanksgiving
We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, surrounded by loved ones and with plenty of delicious food to enjoy. Remember to take a moment to reflect on all the things you are grateful for and to show appreciation to those around you. Wishing you and your [...]
Veterans Day is a Day to Remember
As we celebrate Veterans Day, we want to take a moment to recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served our country in the military. These individuals have sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms and keep us safe, and we are [...]
Support and Honor our Veterans
There are several reasons why veteran outreach and recruitment is a top priority for federal contractors. First and foremost, veterans bring a wealth of experience and valuable skills to the table. Military service requires discipline, leadership, and the ability to work effectively under pressure – [...]
EEOC Guidance on Employer Use of Arrest and Conviction Records
EEOC’s guidance on Consideration of Arrest and Conviction Records in Employment Decisions is based on previous findings related to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibiting employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin. The recent guidance, consistent with three [...]
What Can Exempt You from the FOIA Request?
The question is “to object or not to object” to the release of your company’s 2016 through 2020 EEO-1 Type 2 Consolidated Reports (not to be confused with the Component 2 – which is compensation data). Please note this applies only to multi-location filers. Single-location [...]
EEO-1 Report FOIA Request
Summary of the Issue An investigative reporter (Will Evans, of the Center for Investigative Reporting) requested the records of EEO-1 Consolidated Reports (Type 2) for all federal contractors from OFCCP for the 2016 through 2020 filing years (this affects an estimated 15,000+ contractors per OFCCP [...]
EEOC Announced Study Confirming Pay Data Collection Use to Fight Discrimination
NAS Panel Concludes EEOC’s 2020 Pay Data Collection Could be Used to “Prioritize Investigations and the Allocation of Resources" The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC or the Commission) welcomed the report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (National Academies) issued [...]
OFCCP Clarifies Contractor Portal Issues and Questions
The OFCCP Contractor Portal Now that the Contractor Portal registration deadline has passed, what do I need to know? In a press release today the OFCCP clarified some points that have been misunderstood by some federal contractors and compliance professionals across the country. [...]
OFCCP Provides New Guidance
The OFCCP Contractor Portal Time Sensitive Update: OFCCP Provides New Guidance on Reporting Headcounts in Contractor Portal If you are a company with only one establishment – you may happily ignore this news post! If you have two or more establishments, please keep [...]
EEOC “Failure to File”
Failure to File Did you receive a "Failure to File" notice? Kairos has become aware that the EEOC mailed "Failure to File" notices to companies that have successfully submitted and certified their 2021 EEO-1 reports prior to the May 17, 2022, deadline. The [...]
EEOC To Permit Short Window of Additional Time for Late EEO-1 Report Submissions
Additional Time for Late EEO-1 Report Submissions What happens once the Tuesday, May 17, 2022 deadline passes? Will I still be permitted to submit my 2021 EEO-1 Component 1 Report(s) if I have been unable to do so by the May 17, 2022 published deadline? [...]
3 Techniques for Hiring and Retaining Military Veterans
You may know you want the expertise of a veteran, but you may not know how to get it. Here are three techniques for hiring and retaining military veterans.
2022 EEO-1 Portal
The 2022 EEO-1 Reporting Portal is Open for Business How do I access the EEO-1 reporting system and what is the deadline for filing? EEO-1 Report The EEOC emailed details regarding filing to companies that have previously filed EEO-1 reports. The emails were [...]
OFCCP Compliance Audit Directive 2022-02
OFCCP Issues Directive 2022-02 - Effective Compliance Evaluations and Enforcement The OFCCP has clarified their enforcement initiatives with the issuance of Directive 2022-02, which explicitly rescinds the following directives established under the Trump administration: DIR 2018-06, Contractor Recognition Program (Aug. 24, 2018) - recognizing contractors [...]
The Benefits of Outsourcing OFCCP Compliance
That time of year may be creeping up on you again—your AAP’s expiration. Here are the benefits of outsourcing OFCCP compliance.
Directive 2022-01: Pay Equity Audits
The OFCCP reiterated its commitment to enforcing pay equity compliance today with the release of Directive 2022-01: Pay Equity Audits. This directive emphasized that the OFCCP will request evidence that companies have conducted their required compensation analyses in desk audits pursuant to the regulations at 41 [...]
Best Practices for Ensuring Your Compensation Plan Is Fair
Making sure your company's compensation plan is fair is critical to maintaining employee satisfaction, preventing morale issues and avoiding costly settlements with the OFCCP. A well-executed compensation plan will attract the best employees, keep them motivated, and ultimately increase productivity. Navigating the compensation systems is not easy, [...]
What Are the Key Components of an Affirmative Action Plan?
All federal contractors and subcontractors are required to prepare AAPs annually, but what are the key components of an affirmative action plan?
OFCCP Contractor Portal – Why Am I Being Asked to Certify Affirmative Action Plan Compliance?
The short answer is the federal contractor community overwhelmingly failed to prove their compliance with affirmative action regulations enforced by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). The Long Answer Enforcement statistics from the OFCCP’s compliance evaluations, reported by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in 2016, strongly suggested [...]
OFCCP Contractor Portal Registration Has Started
Per our previous communications, the OFCCP officially opened registration for the Contractor Portal today. At this time federal contractors can create a Login.gov account and register their company on the OFCCP Contractor portal, verifying and/or updating whether their information is correct. If not already in your calendar, please [...]
OFCCP Contractor Portal Certification Question
The OFCCP Contractor Portal What happens if I certify but I am not fully compliant (not conducting the self-audit, compensation analysis, etc.)? Maintaining an AAP means more than checking off the box once a year– there are requirements, such as those described above, which [...]
OFCCP Contractor Portal and Affirmative Action Plan Certification: Updated Questions and Answers
What is the OFCCP Contractor Portal and AAP certification? Federal Regulations at 41 CFR § 60-1 give the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) the ability to require covered contractors to annually certify that they are meeting their affirmative action obligations under Executive Order 11246. The OFCCP Contractor [...]
Which Businesses Need To Have an Affirmative Action Plan?
Required by the US Department of Labor, certain businesses must abide by affirmative action, but which businesses need to have an affirmative action plan?
The OFCCP Contractor Portal and AAP Certification – Questions & Answers
What is the OFCCP Contractor Portal and AAP certification? Federal Regulations at 41 CFR § 60-1 give the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) the ability to require covered contractors to annually certify that they are meeting their affirmative action obligations under Executive Order 11246. The OFCCP Contractor Portal has [...]
California Pay Data Report Filing Requirements
The California pay data report filing requirements are part of the recently enacted California law that requires all private employers that have over 100 employees or have 100 or more labor contractors to annually report their pay and other workforce data, such as demographics, to the state’s Civil [...]
OFCCP’s Contractor Portal Opening and Deadline to Certify AAPs Announced
Today, OFCCP released deadlines and FAQs about its Contractor Portal (previously known as Affirmative Action Program Verification Interface). Contractors will be required to register and annually certify whether they have an AAP for their establishment(s) subject to OFCCP’s jurisdictional thresholds. The Portal will also be used by contractors to [...]
Happy Thanksgiving
A special greeting to express our sincere appreciation for your business, your confidence and loyalty. We are deeply blessed by our relationship with you and extend our best wishes for a happy and healthy Thanksgiving Day.
Workshop Announcement
"How Little Things Lead to Big Problems: Microaggressions in the Workplace" When: Tuesday, November 2, 2021, from 10:00 am-11:15 a.m. CST Where: Webex Workshop: "How Little Things Lead to Big Problems: Microaggressions in the Workplace" One day someone interrupts Jane in a meeting, and she [...]
COVID-19 Vaccine Clause and Compliance Requirements – What You Need to Know
The new vaccine requirement for federal employees and contractors has sparked a lot of interest (and controversy) during the past week. There is a lot of information to digest in “Ensuring Adequate COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors” (EO 14042), part of the President’s “Path out of the [...]
AAP Verification and Other Compliance Updates
EEO-1 Component 2 Data Under the direction of OFCCP Director Jennifer Yang, the agency ‘reversed course’ last week on their position regarding the utility of the EEO-1 Component 2 Data collected during the 2017 and 2018 reporting cycles. Previous statements made by OFCCP in 2019 [...]
The EEO-1 Deadline Has Moved Again
UPDATE EEO-1 ReportThe EEOC has issued an additional extension on filing the 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 reports. The online portal will now remain open until October 25, 2021.You can find the online filing system at: EEOCdata.org/eeo1.Companies that experienced a merger/acquisition/spinoff during 2019 or 2020 no longer have [...]
OFCCP Best Practices for Hiring Temporary Workers
As we all know - OFCCP requires companies to offer self-identification forms to applicants (for gender, race/ethnicity, disability, and veteran status).1 Companies commonly overlook that the use of temporary/staffing agencies does not relieve the company of its requirements to attempt to collect this information from its [...]
Mandatory Training
Have you conducted your annual Affirmative Action/EEO training for managers and others involved in the selection process? It is a regulatory requirement that if left undone often leads to problems in OFCCP compliance audits and complaint investigations. Kairos has an easy button for you! Simply upload [...]
ILG National Conference
Kairos management team members Nick Paul and Will Waymel were selected as speakers for the 2021 National Industry Liaison Group (NILG) Conference to be held this August 1-4 in Nashville, TN. The NILG Conference is the ‘must attend’ annual conference for professionals in affirmative action, equal employment opportunity, and [...]
DE&I – Are your efforts well-done or half-baked?
While 75% of Americans support diversity and inclusion efforts in the workplace1 most diversity programs do little to increase diversity. Some initiatives, like mandatory training, tests, and grievance systems, have been shown to decrease retention of target groups2. The good news is, some initiatives have been [...]
EEO-1 Filing Extension
EEO-1 ReportThe EEOC has issued an extension on filing the 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 reports. The online portal will now remain open until August 23, 2021. You can find the online filing system at: EEOCdata.org/eeo1.Important NotesThe data upload method to file now includes a review period by the EEOC [...]
THE FIRST MEMORIAL DAY COMMEMORATION
One of the earliest recorded Memorial Day events occurred in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1865. Near the end of the American Civil War, Charleston was liberated by the famed 55th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, made up of all Black soldiers. Following liberation, freed slaves exhumed the bodies of [...]
EEO-1 Report Portal Opening
EEO-1 Report The EEOC mailed letters to companies that have previously filed EEO-1 reports. The letters were sent to the address used on the 2018 headquarters report. The letter contains the Company ID and Passcode necessary to log-in and file the 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 report. The online [...]
Annual VEVRAA Hiring Benchmark is 5.6 Percent
The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) just announced the National Annual Veteran Hiring Benchmark will be reduced, effective March 31, from 5.7% to 5.6%. Read more about the Benchmark at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/vevraa/hiring-benchmark.
In Honor of Equal Pay Day
Today, March 24, is Equal Pay Day. This date represents when the average pay for women catches up with the average pay for men from the prior year. Almost 3 months. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 were designed [...]
Affirmative Action Plan Verification Interface Update
Federal contractors and subcontractors are one small step closer to OFCCP's AAP Verification Initiative becoming reality. OFCCP just updated the Affirmative Action Plan Verification Interface website with with a "Coming Soon" title. As previously reported, the interface is being designed to require federal (sub)contactors to annually certify compliance [...]
Census EEO Tabulation Update
On Thursday, March 4, the U.S. Census Bureau released updates to the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Tabulation that are now available for download. The updates include changes to the American Community Survey (ACS) from 2014-2018 data, used to calculate availability to compare against incumbency and set goals. Kairos [...]
CALIFORNIA PAY DATA REPORT DUE MARCH 31, 2021
"It is important to note that an employee declining to self-identify sex does not mean that they should automatically be reported in the non-binary category." The California Pay Data Report has rules that are different from EEO-1 and OFCCP related to gender identification. The California Department [...]
OFCCP Updates Supply & Service Scheduling List
OFCCP has amended the September 20, 2020 scheduling list by removing all establishments selected to receive focused reviews and compliance checks. The evaluations that will proceed include establishment-based compliance reviews, CMCE reviews, FAAP reviews and university compliance reviews. An amended Corporate Scheduling Announcement List (CSAL) and amended methodology [...]
OFCCP Compensation Discrimination – Renewed Focus & Broad Data Collection
Early indications point to renewed OFCCP focus on compensation discrimination audits. Kairos encourages you to begin analyzing your compensation data now. On February 2, 2021, Google agreed to pay $3.8 million to settle compensation and hiring claims stemming from an OFCCP audit ($2.6M for compensation and $1.2M for [...]
OFCCP in the Biden Administration
The Biden Administration introduced a number of changes last week with several Executive Orders and the appointment of a new OFCCP Director. Kairos will briefly discuss these changes and what to expect going forward. (4 minute read) OFCCP Enforcement Trends Historically, Republican administrations have focused on enforcing existing [...]
Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr Day
Today we celebrate the 92nd birthday of the late Dr King. He left behind a rich legacy as an activist and prominent leader of the nonviolent civil rights movement in the 50’s and 60’s. We honor Dr King today by sharing our favorite quotes… “There comes a time [...]
EEO-1 and California Pay Reports Update
EEO-1 Report On Tuesday, January 12, the EEOC issued news release on the status of the 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 reports. The online portal will open in April 2021. Companies should expect to file the 2019 reports at the same time they file their 2020 reports. [...]