The document outlines the Standard Title VI/Non-Discrimination Assurances mandated by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) for recipients of federal financial assistance through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It emphasizes compliance with various civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and limited English proficiency (LEP). The Recipients must ensure that no individual is excluded from participation in, denied benefits from, or subjected to discrimination in any federally assisted program.
Specific assurances include adherence to all applicable regulations, notification to bidders about non-discrimination policies, and inclusion of non-discrimination clauses in contracts and agreements. The document also outlines the responsibilities of contractors to comply with the same non-discrimination statutes, ensuring that procurement and employment practices are free of discrimination. Provisions for potential sanctions for non-compliance are described, as well as requirements for maintaining records and allowing FMCSA access for compliance reviews. Overall, the assurances serve to protect civil rights in federally funded transportation programs.
The January 2024 FMCSA Title VI Program Compliance Plan Checklist outlines requirements for U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Grant Applicants. It mandates the annual submission of an approved Title VI Program Compliance Plan to ensure adherence to civil rights obligations. Key components include a policy statement affirming commitment to Title VI regulations, a description of federal-aid programs and their impacts on the public, procedures for notifying beneficiaries of their rights, and the need for training personnel in Title VI compliance.
Applicants must monitor sub-recipients' compliance, maintain records for FMCSA review, and address complaints through structured processes. The plan emphasizes community outreach, especially when altering public service availability, requiring stakeholder identification and detailed public engagement efforts. Moreover, for applicants involved in commercial motor vehicle safety inspections, policies must be established for unbiased enforcement and inspection selection, ensuring alignment with FMCSA’s Title VI expectations. This compliance plan highlights the government's dedication to promoting equity in transportation services and civil rights protections across funded entities.