The Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act seeks to amend the Revised Code to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles in public and private primary and secondary schools, including preschools and chartered nonpublic schools. The bill introduces a new section, 3313.6612, which expands the definition of "race" to include traits associated with an individual's race, specifically hair textures and styles such as braids, locks, and twists. This legislation allows individuals to take civil action against schools that violate these provisions, emphasizing the need for an inclusive environment where all students are treated fairly.

In addition to the new section, the bill amends existing sections 3314.03, 3326.11, 3328.24, and 4112.01 of the Revised Code, which pertain to the governance and operation of community schools. These amendments aim to enhance oversight and accountability, ensuring that educational institutions comply with a comprehensive set of laws as if they were school districts. The CROWN Act ultimately seeks to promote inclusivity and protect individuals from discrimination based on their natural hair in various settings, including education and beyond.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3314.03, 3326.11, 3328.24, 4112.01