CROWN Act Takes Effect in Vermont

 Effective July 1, 2024, Vermont is the most recent state to pass its own version of the CROWN Act.

CROWN Acts expand the definition of race to include hair protections.  

Under Vermont's Fair Employment Practice Act (FEPA), it is unlawful for "any employer" employment agency, or labor organization to harass or discriminate against any individual because of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, place of birth, crime victim status, or age or against a qualified individual with a disability."

House Bill 363 (HB363) was approved by Vermont Governor Phil Scott on April 24, 2024.  HB363 adds a clarifying definition of race to FEPA, which includes the following:

“Race” includes traits associated with or perceived to be associated with race, including hair type, hair texture, hairstyles, and protective hairstyles. As used in this subdivision, the term “protective hairstyles” includes hairstyles such as individual braids, cornrows, locs, twists, Bantu knots, afros, afro puffs, and other formations, as well as wigs, headwraps, and other head coverings. 

Before Vermont, other states that added hairstyle protections to employment discrimination laws, include Michigan, Texas, and California, among others. It is also stated that several cities and counties have also passed CROWN Act protections in the last several years, such as New York City, back in 2019.

It is advised that employers should review their dress codes and grooming policies to confirm they are in compliance with Vermont's amended FEPA.

Source(s): GovDocs, received May 23, 2024; legislature,vermont.gov, accessed on May 28, 2024.