The U.S. Department of Labor has introduced the AI & Inclusive Hiring Framework, aimed at supporting inclusive use of artificial intelligence in hiring technologies and enhancing opportunities for disabled job seekers. This framework, developed by the Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT) and funded by the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), seeks to mitigate unintentional discrimination and accessibility barriers in AI-powered recruitment.
Based on the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) AI Risk Management Framework, PEAT's new framework incorporates best practices for inclusive hiring. It was developed with input from disability advocates, AI experts, government and industry leaders, and the public. The framework outlines 10 focus areas with practices, goals, and sample activities that employers can adopt to ensure their AI governance supports disability-inclusive hiring. Each area provides guidance on maximizing benefits while managing risks associated with AI hiring technologies.
“The Office of Disability Employment Policy works with many employers eager to hire people with disabilities and benefit from their talents,” said Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Policy Taryn Williams. “These employers recognize that AI tools can improve recruitment and hiring but may also impact workplace culture and inclusion of disabled employees. The AI & Inclusive Hiring Framework published today charts a clear course for employers to navigate this transformation successfully.”
The foundation for this initiative was laid during a PEAT Think Tank in April 2023, followed by further input from experts through discussions, listening sessions, and a national online public dialogue. ODEP and PEAT collaborated with NIST and other partners to author the framework.
This initiative aligns with the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to prevent AI-powered employment tools from limiting U.S. workers' job prospects. In October 2022, the White House’s Office of Science and Technology Policy released its Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights to promote equitable digital hiring practices for workers with disabilities and other underserved communities.
Managed by Wheelhouse Group, PEAT assists workplaces in procuring, implementing, and using disability-inclusive technology.
