(1) It is the policy of the state of Montana that state government:

(a) is an equal employment opportunity employer;

(b) does not discriminate in employment based upon race, color, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, or political beliefs; and

(c) implement and maintain an effective equal employment opportunity program which may include a written affirmative action plan.

(2) It is the objective of this policy to establish minimum standards for the implementation of an equal employment opportunity program for all executive branch agencies, in compliance with relevant state and federal laws, regulations, and executive orders.