The directive includes requirements for agencies to track demographic data on their workforces. Image: Burdun Iliya/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffThe EEOC has highlighted the impact of its key directive to federal agencies, called Management Directive 715, on its 20th anniversary, saying it has “made it easier to collect data and identify barriers affecting specific EEO groups in the federal workforce.”
“As the nation’s largest employer, the federal government must strive to provide equal opportunity to all its employees and applicants. MD-715 clearly outlines the elements necessary to develop a model EEO program,” it says.
It notes that the directive sets six primary standards for agency EEO programs: demonstrated commitment from agency leadership, integration of EEO into the agency’s strategic mission, management and program accountability, proactive prevention of unlawful discrimination, efficiency, and responsiveness and legal compliance.
The directive further includes requirements for agencies to track demographic data on their workforces, conduct self-assessments to find deficiencies in their EEO programs and create plans for addressing them, and identify and create plans to eliminate barriers.
The EEOC in particular stressed the directive’s role in addressing barriers such as “restrictions, routines, or traditions within the agency that may limit EEO,” saying that most are not intentional, which “makes them difficult to identify and address.” It gave as an example recruiting from a limited number of colleges that specialize in certain career fields, colleges that may have demographic imbalances in their student populations.
It adds, “The EEOC will continue to evaluate possible updates to MD-715 in the future, including collecting additional categories of data or more refined data. Furthermore, as technology continues to improve, the EEOC aims to make it even easier for agencies to access their data.”
Nearly 10,000 Federal Offices Don’t Meet Usage Standards
OPM Plan on Employee Ratings Asking for Abuse, Says Senior House Democrat
OK, FERS and TSP, but What About Social Security Retirement Income?
Conversions to Schedule P/C Pending; Acknowledgement Form Draws Attention
Senate Passes DHS Funding Deal, but Stalls in House; Trump Signs Order to Pay TSA Personnel
See also,
Calculating Service Credit for Sick Leave At Retirement
FERS Supplement vs The 10% Pension Bonus
How Your FERS, Social Security and TSP Payments Get Taxed
