Us Congress Senate Bill SJR36

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/22/23
• Refer: 6/22/23

Caption

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs of the Department of Labor relating to "Rescission of Implementing Legal Requirements Regarding the Equal Opportunity Clause's Religious Exemption Rule".

Impact

The bill's passage would result in reinstating the previous enforcement requirements for federal contractors to adhere more strictly to the Equal Opportunity Clause. By disapproving the OFCCP's rescission of these legal requirements, SJR36 seeks to ensure that organizations receiving federal contracts cannot exempt themselves from compliance under certain religious grounds, thus reinforcing workplace protections against discrimination based on religion.

Summary

SJR36 is a joint resolution aimed at disapproving a recent regulation implemented by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) under the Department of Labor. This regulation pertains to the non-enforcement of certain legal requirements related to the Equal Opportunity Clause's religious exemption rule. Introduced by Senators Lankford and Budd, the resolution utilizes congressional authority under chapter 8 of title 5 of the U.S. Code to effectively nullify the rule that modifies existing obligations for federal contractors regarding religious exemptions.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SJR36. Proponents argue that the resolution is essential to uphold equal opportunity standards in federal contracting, ensuring that all employees, regardless of their religious affiliation, are protected from discrimination. Conversely, opponents argue that the enforcement of strict compliance with the previous rules could infringe on constitutional rights related to religious freedoms, suggesting that the bill represents an overreach into the private sector and may create tensions between federal mandates and religious organizations.