Beginning on September 1, 2023, the Texas Labor Code will prohibit race discrimination on the basis of an employee’s hair texture or a protective hairstyle commonly or historically associated with race.  Protected hairstyle includes braids, locks, and twists. Twenty states have pass similar laws commonly referred to as CROWN Acts.  CROWN is an acronym for Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair.

The Texas amendment makes it unlawful for an employer, labor union or employment agency to adopt or enforce a dress or grooming policy that discriminates against a hair texture or protective hairstyle commonly or historically associated with race.  Texas employers should review their dress, appearance and grooming codes to ensure they are in line with the new Texas prohibition.

A copy of the new law is accessible here.