Bill > HB477

This bill, known as the "Create A Respectful And Open Workplace For Natural Hair (CROWN) Act," seeks to prohibit discrimination against individuals based on their natural or protective hairstyles in workplaces and schools. The legislation recognizes that hair-related discrimination disproportionately affects African Americans, Latinas, and other ethnic groups, and aims to address this issue by making it illegal for employers, schools, school districts, or administrators to create policies that prohibit or penalize natural hairstyles such as afros, braids, twists, and locs. The bill makes it unlawful to discriminate against employees or students by denying promotions, reducing wages, or disciplining individuals because of their hair texture or style. Employers and schools are prohibited from creating dress codes or policies that restrict natural hairstyles, and the bill provides legal recourse for individuals who experience such discrimination. Victims of hair-based discrimination can file civil actions within two years of the discriminatory practice, potentially recovering unpaid wages, liquidated and compensatory damages, punitive damages, and attorney's fees. The legislation emphasizes the importance of fairness, equity, and opportunity for all, recognizing that hair texture has historically been used as a factor in racial discrimination.

Business and Industry

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0477.xml