Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act requires all federal contractors to establish a ______ utilization goal of including people with disabilities.

Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 mandates that federal contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities. The law sets a specific utilization goal of 7% for the employment of individuals with disabilities in each job group of the contractor's workforce. This goal serves as a benchmark to encourage employers to create more inclusive workplaces and to ensure that they are actively pursuing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

The focus on a 7% goal is rooted in the need for federal contractors to demonstrate their commitment to diversity and equal opportunity, thus fostering a more equitable workforce. By establishing this target, the legislation aims to hold contractors accountable for implementing recruitment and hiring practices that actively include individuals with disabilities, thereby promoting inclusivity and representation in the workplace.