Which section of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is enforced by the Department of Labor?

Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is enforced by the Department of Labor and specifically focuses on affirmative action and nondiscrimination in employment for individuals with disabilities by federal contractors and subcontractors. It mandates that these employers must take proactive steps to ensure that they are providing equal employment opportunities to people with disabilities, including hiring and retaining them. This section aims to promote workforce inclusion and to combat discrimination against individuals with disabilities in the workplace.

The emphasis on affirmative action entails that federal contractors must develop and implement a written affirmative action program to ensure compliance with these requirements. This program outlines the measures the employer will take to ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are recruited, hired, and promoted.

The other sections, while vital components of the Rehabilitation Act, focus on different areas. For example, Section 501 pertains to the employment of individuals with disabilities within the federal government, while Section 504 addresses the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Section 502 relates to the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board and its responsibilities, rather than employee hiring practices. Therefore, Section 503 is specifically linked to the Department of Labor’s enforcement mechanisms regarding employment practices for individuals with disabilities.