Sacramento Attorney Breaks Down Pending Legislation Prohibiting Hair Discrimination

In his bylined article for the Sacramento Business Journal titled “California proposal would prohibit employment race discrimination based on hairstyles,” Sacramento Of Counsel Benjamin M. Ebbink discusses California Senate Bill 188, which would amend the definition of race under the Fair Employment and Housing Act to include “traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles.” Ben notes that the issue has garnered national attention, with New York and several federal courts having weighed in on the issue.

Ben says that while SB 188 may be amended before it lands on Gov. Newsom’s desk, California employers should monitor the bill closely in case it becomes law. He encourages employers to consider whether they have legitimate reasons for current grooming and appearance policies for employees.

To read the full article, please visit the Sacramento Business Journal.