Diversity in state agencies explored

(June 17, 2008) Late last year, Gov. Rell gathered a panel from across the state, representing various professions, to study the issue of diversity in state agencies. Amid complaints from the agencies themselves and the individuals they serve, the panel was convened to examine how well the state was meeting its own diversity goals and objectives.

So far, the group has focused on the administration and effectiveness of the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO), the agency charged with enforcing state fair employment practice laws. CBIA was appointed to represent the state’s business community on the panel.

Some of the issues the panel has explored include:

• Low employee morale (CHRO employees themselves have raised a surprising number of equal opportunity and employment-related claims)
• Diversity objectives in hiring and training personnel
• The speed and efficiency of the administrative hearing process
• Claims management processes in Connecticut compared with those in model states.

In May, Ray Pech, executive director of the CHRO, announced his retirement from the agency after more than 20 years of service. As of this writing, it’s not clear how Pech’s departure will affect the panel’s work; his permanent replacement has yet to be named.

Based on preliminary feedback from our members, many appear generally satisfied with CHRO’s claims management for employment-related claims. However, there is still opportunity to provide input to the process. CBIA members are encouraged to submit comments to CBIA over the next few months.

To comment, or for more information, please contact Kia Murrell at 860-244-1931 or kia.murrell@cbia.com. n