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On Dec. 9, 2011, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) proposed significant changes to its regulations implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which would revise the nondiscrimination and affirmative action obligations of direct federal contractors and their subcontractors regarding individuals with disabilities.Ìý OFCCP estimates that the total cost of compliance with these requirements will be approximately $473 per establishment per year.Ìý In an effort to determine a more accurate cost burden for construction contractors, Â鶹ÊÓƵ is asking members to respond to an that will help to establish comments on behalf of the industry.ÌýÌý All survey responses will be kept completely confidential.Ìý Because OFCCP has given the public only until Feb. 7, 2012 to review, analyze, and comment on its proposal, Â鶹ÊÓƵ will need responses to the survey no later than Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012. In addition, Â鶹ÊÓƵ members are encouraged to submit letters individually opposing the implementation of these proposed regulations, specifically asking OFCCP to exempt the construction industry from the requirements of the proposed rule through the .Ìý A sample editable letter is provided for convenience.Ìý Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s request to extend the comment deadline was denied, therefore, all comments must be submitted by February 7, 2012. For more information on the proposed rule, click or contact Tamika Carter at (703) 837-5382 or cartert@agc.org. Ìý