What is Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973?

Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a law that prohibits companies doing business with the federal government from discriminating against employees with disabilities. The law also requires employers to take affirmative action to recruit, hire, promote, and retain individuals with disabilities.

Why is this important?

If you’re part of an organization hoping to secure a contract with the U.S. government, your organization must comply as a whole with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. In other words, for any department of your organization to receive a US government contract or sub-contract, your entire company must meet Section 503 requirements.

How can you ensure you’re compliant? 

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Labor, created a checklist to help organizations assess their compliance with the requirements of Section 503. By answering a series of yes and no questions, you can determine whether your company’s practices are compliant. 

What’s the best course of action?

The iDisability® software solution was specifically created to assist companies in improving their disability inclusion practices. By facilitating training and educating your workforce on interviewing, communicating, and accommodating individuals with disabilities, iDisability® can help your organization achieve compliance.

iDisability® has helped over 4 million business users across a variety of industries educate their workforce. However, our learning vignettes serve a greater purpose. By using our 40 e-learning modules to provide training, you can achieve compliance with Section 503. Discover how we can help