Bill > HB365

This bill, known as the Create A Respectful And Open Workplace For Natural (CROWN) Hair Act, aims to prohibit discrimination against individuals based on their natural hairstyles in workplaces and schools throughout Mississippi. The legislation recognizes that policies restricting natural hairstyles such as afros, braids, twists, and locs disproportionately impact African Americans, Latinas, and other ethnic groups, and can negatively affect wages, educational opportunities, and quality of life. The bill prohibits employers, schools, school districts, and administrators from creating dress codes or policies that ban natural hairstyles, and from discriminating against individuals by denying promotions, reducing wages, or disciplining students and employees based on their hair texture or style. Employers cannot pay different wages or treat employees differently unless the differential is based on legitimate factors like seniority, merit, or job-related performance. If an employer or school is found in violation of the act, the aggrieved person may recover unpaid wages, damages, and attorney's fees through a civil action, which must be filed within two years of the discriminatory practice. The legislation is designed to promote fairness, equity, and opportunity for all individuals, regardless of their natural hair characteristics.

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https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0365.xml