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November 13, 2024
California became the first state, in 2019, to Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair (CROWN Act) by clarifying that the definition of race in anti-discrimination statutes applicable to workplaces and educational institutions includes traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles, like braids, locs, and twists.
On September 26, 2024, California Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1815, removing the term “historically” from the definitions of race. The bill became effective immediately, as it was deemed to be a declaration of existing law.
Though this change may appear to be minor, it is important for California employers to review their existing dress code and grooming policies to ensure that their policies’ definitions are consistent with the amended law.
The author of this article, Patricia Tsipras is a member of the Bar of Pennsylvania. This article is designed to provide one perspective regarding recent legal developments, and is not intended to serve as legal advice in Pennsylvania, California, or any other jurisdiction, nor does it establish an attorney-client relationship with any reader of the article where one does not exist. Always consult an attorney with specific legal issues.
