OFCCP director opens virtual NILG conference

On Monday, July 6, 2020, Craig Leen spoke at what is likely his last National Industry Liaison Group (NILG) conference as director of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) since he is expected to soon be confirmed as inspector general at the Office of Personnel Management. Leen spent more than two hours discussing what he believes the agency has accomplished on his watch and provided insights into what he expects the agency to focus on for the rest of President Donald Trump's current term.

Specifically, Leen stated that he expects the previously announced Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) focused reviews to begin during the second half of July. Those proposed reviews were announced in a supplemental scheduling list in November 2019. Contractors that are on the supplemental list can find guidance on what to expect on the VEVRAA focused review landing page on the OFCCP's website. Like Section 503 focused reviews, the VEVRAA audits will involve mandatory virtual on-sites.

Leen discussed in some detail his belief that much of the pay gap can be explained by the failure of women and minorities to be promoted. Based on that belief, the agency will be expanding its focused audits to include promotions. In addition, the agency will be adding both religious and disability accommodation focused reviews to its audits.

A transcript of Leen's comments can be found at https://nilgconference.com/completed-webinars/.

OFCCP policy update at NILG