Utilizing 2014 Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) year-end data, OFCCP has revised the VEVRAA hiring benchmark to 7 percent – down from the current 7.2% mark. Pursuant to the revised veteran regulations, covered contractors and subcontracts must either adopt the national benchmark, or set their own using the proscribed five-factor method, for each establishment. While OFCCP has said failing to meet the hiring benchmark will not be deemed a violation, the mark should be used by contractors in the required assessment of the effectiveness of the contractor’s good faith outreach efforts.

The Annual National Benchmark, as well as data to be used by those calculating their own benchmark using the five-factor analysis, can be found at http://www.dol-esa.gov/errd/VEVRAA.jsp.