Friday, January 8, 2021 Here are the latest developments from the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). New Religious Exemption Final Rule. OFCCP recently finalized a rule to “clarify the contours” of Executive Order 11246 on religious exemptions and its related obligations. “Implementing Legal Requirements Regarding the Equal Opportunity Clause’s Religious Exemption,” which OFCCP finalized on December 9, 2020, establishes protections for religious organizations to “hire employees who will further their religious missions, thereby providing clarity that may expand the eligible pool of federal contractors and subcontractors.” OFCCP’s news release on the final rules states that the agency has answered frequently asked questions to help explain the rule, which goes into effect on January 8, 2021. OFCCP will conduct a webinar for stakeholders on the final rule on January 8, 2021, as well.