Texas Bans Hairstyle Discrimination

Texas has enacted legislation (House Bill 567), which expressly prohibits discrimination against individuals based on traits associated with race, such as hair texture and hairstyles like braids, locs, and twists. House Bill 567 takes effect September 1, 2023.

The Details

House Bill 567 prohibits a Texas employer, labor union, or employment agency from adopting or enforcing a dress or grooming policy that discriminates against a hair texture or protective hairstyle commonly or historically associated with race, including protected hairstyles such as braids, locs, and twists.

Next Steps

• Review dress codes, appearance policies, and training to ensure compliance with House Bill 567 by September 1, 2023.
• If your policy simply indicates that employees must maintain kempt hair, consider clarifying that kempt means that the hair is clean and well combed or arranged, and that employees can comply with a variety of hairstyles that meet those criteria.

Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.