Redstone Government Consulting Blog | Sheri Buchanan

On August 21, 2026, the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Federal Contractor Compliance Programs (OFCCP) published three final rules addressing its regulatory framework following the revocation of EO 11246. One final rule rescinds the regulations that implemented EO 11246, while the other two modify the regulations implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) of 1974, as amended. The Section 503 and VEVRAA changes are generally effective September 21, 2026, while the rescission of the EO 11246 implementing regulations is effective October 26, 2026.

September 2026 Update

Since this article was published, OFCCP has finalized additional regulatory changes affecting government contractors. On August 21, 2026, DOL published final rules revising the regulations implementing Section 503 and VEVRAA and rescinding the regulations that implemented EO 11246. Most Section 503 and VEVRAA changes take effect September 21, 2026. Read our latest Client Alert for a breakdown of the updated requirements and key compliance dates.

While selecting the right HRIS system is a major process in itself, configuring it is a whole other piece of the puzzle. From the recruitment-to-hire process to timekeeping and payroll, it’s essential to set up the system optimally from the start to support compliance and ensure the most success as your business grows. When you add in the government contract compliance piece, the “puzzle” is even further complicated.

Accurate timekeeping is important to most businesses, but for federal government contractors, it is crucial to compliance and continued success. While timekeeping may seem like a straightforward and simple task, it can be daunting for those responsible for developing and implementing appropriate processes, systems, and audit trails. Improper procedures can quickly lead to reporting inaccuracies and audit nightmares! A well-designed process, accompanied by an accurately designed system and a well-documented and communicated policy, is critical.

Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, has left many unsure as to what you can, cannot, should, or should not do. You are not alone! There are many unanswered questions, so we do not and could not claim to have all the answers, but we do have some thoughts and suggestions to consider at this stage.

Managing HR functions while ensuring compliance can be challenging, especially during busy times of the year. Between tracking accruals, managing time records, verifying new hire documentation, and ensuring HR systems function correctly, small inefficiencies can quickly add up. Addressing these issues early allows organizations to maintain accurate records, generate reliable reports, and streamline compliance processes, reducing stress during critical reporting periods.

President Trump took aim at more than just DEI programs in Executive Order 14173 signed on January 21, 2025, "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity," in which he ordered the revocation of several executive actions, including EO 11246.

As a government contractor, ensuring compliance with employment law regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial element in protecting your business from significant financial and legal risks. While employment law compliance might seem straightforward, the complexities of frequent updates and variations across jurisdictions make it a challenging task to manage. In this post, we’ll explore why employment law compliance is vital, the risks of non-compliance, and how you can protect your business with a comprehensive solution.

It is no secret that money plays a significant role in attracting, motivating, and retaining employees; however, recent studies and our experience show that a holistic approach to total compensation is key to success in today’s market. A 2016 study by the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) found that pay was the second most important factor of job satisfaction. Many employers focus on the numbers behind the dollar sign, but total compensation goes beyond the paycheck. Total compensation, as defined by Indeed, refers to the total value an organization offers an employee in exchange for their work, including their salary and any benefits or incentives. In addition to these elements, intangible factors like company culture, engagement, wellness, development, and recognition should also be considered as features of total compensation.

Implementing the proper human resources information systems (HRIS) brings many benefits to HR teams and the businesses they support. These benefits may include automating processes, efficient talent acquisition, effective employee management, proper time tracking, increased employee engagement, and more. Poor execution of the implementation can create havoc, causing frustration, confusion and a lack of employee engagement. Improper security assignments will cause employees to see the information they shouldn't or managers to be unable to see what they should. In worst cases, employees may not get paid correctly or at all if a system is not setup properly and thoroughly tested. These are just some of the issues that could result from not choosing a partner who is dedicated to knowing your business needs and minimizing the challenges as much as possible. Some complications are expected, but the right partner will find a way to navigate or even avoid them effectively. We utilize the UKG Ready HRIS solution for HR, Payroll, and Timekeeping at Redstone Government Consulting, as we find it can fully meet our clients' needs, not only for our Federal Government Contractor clients but also for any clients looking for a full-suite solution.