The bill amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to expand the definitions related to race and protective hairstyles. Specifically, it introduces a new definition of "race" that includes traits historically associated with an individual's race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles. The bill stipulates that while employers can enforce workplace health and safety rules or policies that may impact these traits, they must demonstrate that such rules are necessary for health or safety, are adopted for nondiscriminatory reasons, are tailored to specific positions, and are applied equally to all employees in similar roles. Additionally, it allows for the enforcement of workplace policies aimed at preventing a hostile work environment, provided these policies are also nondiscriminatory and applied equally.

Furthermore, the bill defines "protective hairstyle" to include various styles such as locs, braids, twists, coils, Bantu knots, afros, and extensions. This legislative change aims to enhance protections against discrimination based on race and associated traits in the workplace, ensuring that individuals are not penalized for their natural hairstyles. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 397 (Jan 30, 2025): P.L.744, No.222
Printer's No. 508 (Feb 05, 2025): P.L.744, No.222
Printer's No. 996 (Mar 17, 2025): P.L.744, No.222
Printer's No. 0397: P.L.744, No.222
Printer's No. 0508: P.L.744, No.222
Printer's No. 0996: P.L.744, No.222