The bill amends Section 16-38-1 of the General Laws, which pertains to offenses related to schools, to explicitly prohibit discrimination on the basis of race in public schools and schools operated by the council on elementary and secondary education. This prohibition extends to employment practices, admissions, curricular programs, extracurricular activities, counseling, and all other school functions and activities. The bill also defines "race" to include traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles, which encompasses styles like braids, locks, and twists.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 28-5-6 of the General Laws, which relates to fair employment practices, by adding definitions for "protective hairstyles" and "race" that align with those in the education section. These insertions aim to ensure that discrimination based on race, including traits historically associated with race like hair texture and protective hairstyles, is prohibited in employment contexts as well. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, signaling the urgency of addressing and preventing racial discrimination in both educational and employment settings in the state.

Statutes affected:
7724: 16-38-1, 28-5-6, 42-112-1