United States Department of the Interior                                      FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE                                                  Washington, D.C. 20240

SUBJECT:  Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement

A. POLICY: This emphasizes my personal commitment to achieve equal employment opportunity for every employee of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a work force that is reflective of the diversity of the Nation's population.

B. SCOPE: All Service employees and applicants.

C. OBJECTIVES: I am dedicated to achieving excellence in equal employment opportunity in the Service and ensuring that employment decisions and personnel actions are administered fairly, equitably, and in compliance with the Federal regulations governing equal employment opportunity and personnel management. Individuals will not be denied opportunities in employment because of their race, sex, age, religion, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other factors not properly relevant to employment.

D. RESPONSIBILITIES: It is the responsibility of the Service Directorate to establish internal objectives and strategies as well as monitor progress in achieving our diversity initiatives.

It is also the responsibility of management and employees to support the equal employment opportunity program principles; create a positive environment for a multicultural work force; maintain a workplace free of discriminatory practices or policies; and attempt resolution of any form of discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, or physical or mental disability.

All employees play a participatory role in supporting this effort through their individual conduct and, therefore, must be sensitive to the rights of co-workers and all others with whom they interact. If conflicts arise, employees and managers must work together to resolve issues at early stages and seek assistance from an EEO counselor in resolving concerns. Alternative dispute resolution may also be used to resolve complaints. All complainants are guaranteed freedom from reprisal. Failure to comply with EEO laws and regulations may lead to disciplinary action up to and including removal from the Service.

E. AUTHORITY: Equal Pay Act of 1963; Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended; Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 as amended; Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended; Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991; and the Civil Rights Act of 1991.

F. SUPERSESSION: This issuance supersedes and replaces NPI 94-04.