OFCCP: 2008 Homestretch Presentation - Audits

OFCCP: 2008 Homestretch - Audits

The OFCCP recently conducted a webinar to discuss significant accomplishments within the last fiscal year and future initiatives for fiscal year 2009. Among the initiatives for 2009, the OFCCP discussed future compliance evaluations.

Contractors should prepare for an audit storm to hit. Beginning in the first week of October 2008 the OFCCP will send out Corporate Scheduling Announcement Letters (CSAL) to organizations with two or more establishments on the potential list for compliance evaluation. Following the CSAL, during the second week of October 2008 the OFCCP will be sending 2,500 scheduling letters (for Compliance Evaluation). Another batch of 5,000 scheduling letters is scheduled to be release in March 2009.

If 7,500 potential audits in 2009 are not enough, the OFCCP announced a new initiative in which one in fifty audits will be scheduled for an automatic on-site review. The OFCCP announced they will randomly choose establishments for on-site review.

Keep in mind not all contractors will receive a CSAL and establishments not on a CSAL can still be audited.

The OFCCP discussed a few other important notes listed below:
· The OFCCP will continue their focus on systemic discrimination.
· The OFCCP is continuing to streamline their procedure to allow them to maximize resources.
· A majority of compliance evaluations are closed after the desk audit.
· The OFCCP will incorporate quality audit standards to ensure compliance and responsibility to VEVRAA and 503.

With the forthcoming storm of audits and new directives, contractors need to be prepared. Make sure you have an Affirmative Action Plan in place before receiving a 30 day scheduling letter. This will allow maximum time to prepare for audit submittal. Also, make sure you are up-to-date and compliant with all EEO/AA regulations and requirements. This includes Veteran requirements. While this has not typically been an OFCCP focus it sounds as though that may change. If you are not familiar with EEO/AA regulations and requirements please contact an expert, like Biddle Consulting Group, to help you prepare.