Maryland has enacted legislation (House Bill 1444) that will expressly prohibit employers from discriminating against individuals because of hair texture and protective hairstyles. House Bill 1444 takes effect Oct. 1, 2020.
Background:
Maryland prohibits employers with 15 or more employees from discriminating against individuals because of race and certain other characteristics.
House Bill 1444:
House Bill 1444 amends state law to clarify that the term race includes traits associated with race, including hair texture, afro hairstyles, and protective hairstyles. Under the law a protective hairstyle includes braids, locks, and twists.
Compliance Recommendations:
Maryland employers should review dress codes, appearance policies, and training to ensure they avoid restrictions on hair texture, afro hairstyles, and protective hairstyles and that they comply with House Bill 1444. If your policy simply indicates that employees must maintain kempt hair, consider clarifying that kempt means that the hair is clean and well combed or arranged, and that employees can comply with a variety of hairstyles that meet those criteria. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.