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WV HB5502
WV HB5502Amending the Human Rights Act to allow regulation of traits associated with a person’s race only for nondiscriminatory purposes
summary
Introduced
02/13/2026
02/13/2026
In Committee
02/13/2026
02/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
The purpose of this bill is to provide a definition of "race" under the Human Rights Act to allow regulation of hairstyles or other traits historically associated with a persons race if done for a nondiscriminatory basis and to assure workplace safety.
AI Summary
This bill amends the Human Rights Act by adding a definition for "race" to include traits historically associated with an individual's race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles. It clarifies that employers can still regulate these traits if it's for nondiscriminatory purposes and necessary for workplace health and safety. Specifically, an employer must demonstrate that without the rule, health or safety would be impaired, the rule is for nondiscriminatory reasons, is tailored to the specific job, and is applied equally to all employees in similar positions. This aims to prevent discrimination based on race-related traits while ensuring workplace safety.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (6)
Anitra Hamilton (D)*,
Rick Garcia (D),
Evan Hansen (D),
Sean Hornbuckle (D),
Hollis Lewis (D),
Mike Pushkin (D),
Last Action
To House Government Organization (on 02/13/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5502&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill |
| BillText | http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/bills_text.cfm?billdoc=hb5502%20intr.htm&yr=2026&sesstype=RS&i=5502 |
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