This bill amends several sections of the General Laws to enhance protections against discrimination based on race in public schools and employment practices. It introduces new language in Section 16-38-1 to prohibit discrimination in public elementary and secondary schools, explicitly including employment practices, admissions, curricular programs, extracurricular activities, and other school functions. The bill defines "protective hairstyles" and expands the definition of "race" to encompass traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and specific hairstyles commonly linked to particular racial or national origins.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 28-5-6 to include definitions for "protective hairstyles" and "race," which align with the definitions established in the education section. It also updates Section 42-112-1 to ensure that all individuals have equal rights regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, or country of ancestral origin, while incorporating the new definitions of race and protective hairstyles. The act is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing the commitment to combat discrimination in various sectors.

Statutes affected:
5841: 16-38-1, 28-5-6, 42-112-1