Signed by Governor Ralph Northam

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits racial discrimination based on hair by expanding the definition of race to include hair characteristics.

Highlights:

• Prohibits conduct that violated any Virginia or federal statute or regulation governing discrimination on the basis of race, color religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, or disability (Sec. 1).

• Defines “because of race” or “on the basis of race” as discrimination on the basis of traits historically associated the race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text