What it means for federal contractors:
On January 21, 2025, President Donald Trump, under the auspices of promoting civil rights and merit-based opportunity by ending “illegal” diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, revokes Executive Order (EO) 11246, as amended, which had been in place for 60 years. EO 11246 prohibits federal contractors from discriminating based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin and mandates affirmative action by covered federal contractors to ensure equal employment opportunities.
What is Included Within EO 11246?
Under EO 11246, covered federal contractors are required to take many actions, including:
- Prominently post a nondiscrimination clause in its workplace.
- State in job advertisements that all qualified candidates will be considered without discrimination.
- Protect employees’ rights to discuss compensation.
- Inform labor unions of their obligations.
- File compliance reports with the Secretary of Labor.
- Implement an affirmative action plan with specific employment goals for marginalized groups and women.
- Appoint an official responsible for the equal opportunity and affirmative action program.
The full article can be found here.
