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New York Becomes Second State to Ban Discrimination Based on Natural Hairstyles


Earlier this month, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law that bars employers in the state from discriminating against employees based upon their natural hairstyles.

The law updates the definition of "race" to include "traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and protective styles."  "Protective hairstyles" include "braids, locks, and twists."  Notably, the law goes into effect immediately which means employers in the state have no time to delay in taking steps to comply. 

Readers will recall that California enacted a similar law earlier this month as well.  With New York following suit, it will be interesting to see if other states do so as well.  Perhaps New Jersey, Illinois or Massachusetts will be next?



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