Section 503 Regulatory Update

Disability:IN is closely reviewing the U.S. Department of Labor’s final rule modifying the regulations implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. The rule changes several requirements for federal contractors, including the 7% disability utilization goal, invitations to self-identify, and related data-collection and analysis requirements.

Section 503 remains in effect, including its core requirements related to nondiscrimination, reasonable accommodations, affirmative action, outreach, and recruitment. Disability:IN is committed to helping partners understand the broader implications of the modified rule and to exploring how their disability inclusion strategies may evolve. Because this updatedrule may affect each organization differently, companies should consult with their legal and compliance teams as they evaluate their policies, systems, and practices.

Through our research and work with companies around the world, we know that people with disabilities bring valuable insight, innovation, and lived experience that strengthen businesses. Companies that lead in disability inclusion achieve 1.6 times more revenue, 2.6 times more net income, and twice the economic profit of their peers. While regulatory requirements may evolve, the inherent business case for disability inclusion is strong.

Disability:IN remains committed to our shared mission to globally advance disability inclusion in business. We are assessing the rule in consultation with legal and industry experts and will connect partners to timely information, practical resources, and peer insights to help guide internal decision-making.

‍