This bill seeks to amend the definition of "race" within the Human Rights Act of West Virginia by introducing a new definition that encompasses traits historically associated with an individual's race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles. The bill stipulates that employers may regulate these traits as long as such regulations are justified for workplace health and safety reasons. Specifically, it allows for the adoption of workplace rules or policies that impact these traits, provided that the employer can demonstrate that the rule is necessary for health or safety, is nondiscriminatory, is tailored to the specific position, and is applied equally to all individuals in similar roles.

The new legal language inserted into the bill clarifies that the term "race" includes traits historically associated with race and outlines the conditions under which employers can enforce rules related to these traits. This amendment aims to balance the protection of individual rights with the need for workplace safety, ensuring that any regulations are applied fairly and justly. The bill does not delete any existing definitions but rather adds to the current framework to enhance clarity and enforceability regarding race-related traits in the workplace.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16B-17-3