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Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs (OCIA)

Mission Statement

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The Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs (OCIA) serves to advance the Secretary's mission promoting the Department of Labor as the Department of Opportunity to policymakers both in Washington and throughout state and local governments. OCIA assists the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, agency heads, and departmental staff to develop effective programs and strategies to achieve the Department's legislative goals and objectives. OCIA also coordinates with Departmental leadership to educate policymakers about the Department's programs and federal labor issues.





2015 Congressional Handbook


OCIA Functions

OCIA is the Department's liaison to Congress and other governmental entities. In this capacity OCIA's main responsibility is communicating the Department's priorities and policies. This effort is accomplished by:

Congressional and Intergovernmental Communications: OCIA coordinates all Department matters related to Congress as well as state and local officials

  • Reviews pending and proposed legislation and its impact on the Department
  • Schedules and coordinates Congressional hearings and briefings
  • Prepares senior-level staff for briefings and hearings before Congress
  • Develops and implements the Department's legislative agenda, which includes legislative initiatives and proposals
  • Coordinates the Department's response to technical assistance requests
  • Responds to Congressional requests for information
  • Monitors all Department-related legislative actions

Agency Grants: Grant award notifications are sent to Members of Congress who have a successful applicant in their district

  • Provides Congressional notification of all grants awarded by the Department
  • Responds to Congressional inquiries regarding grant award solicitations
  • Provides information on the status of grant solicitations

Departmental Inquiries/Casework: OCIA provides assistance on any issue related to the Department

  • Assists congressional staff with a variety of constituent-related inquiries.