The Philadelphia Plan: A Legal Overview of Its Impact on Employment

Definition & Meaning

The Philadelphia Plan is an initiative aimed at combating employment discrimination within the construction industry in Philadelphia. Launched by senior city officials, this plan requires contractors who work with the federal government to set their own goals for minority employment. These goals must align with standards established by the government. The initiative emerged in response to findings from the Department of Labor, which revealed that minority representation in key construction trades was only about one percent, despite minorities making up approximately thirty percent of the local construction workforce.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A construction company bidding on a federal project in Philadelphia sets a goal to increase minority employment from one percent to ten percent over the next year, following the guidelines of the Philadelphia Plan.

Example 2: A contractor successfully implements a training program for minority workers, resulting in a significant increase in their hiring rates for a federally funded construction project. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Key Differences
California Similar initiatives exist, but with additional state-specific requirements for minority participation.
New York Employs a different set of standards for minority contracting goals in public works projects.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Differences
Affirmative Action Policies aimed at increasing opportunities for historically underrepresented groups. Broader scope than the Philadelphia Plan, which is specific to construction contracts.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Legal requirement for employers to provide equal treatment in hiring and employment. EEO is a general principle, while the Philadelphia Plan includes specific goals for minority hiring.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a contractor working on federal projects in Philadelphia, familiarize yourself with the Philadelphia Plan's requirements. Set achievable minority hiring goals and document your progress. Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates for compliance documentation. If you face complex legal challenges, consulting with a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by project.
  • Jurisdiction: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
  • Possible penalties: Loss of federal contracts for non-compliance.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The primary goal is to eradicate employment discrimination and increase minority representation in the construction industry.