Minnesota Bans Hairstyle Discrimination

Minnesota has enacted legislation that expressly prohibits discrimination against individuals based on traits associated with race, such as hair texture and hairstyles like braids, locs, and twists. The legislation (House File 37) takes effect August 1, 2023.

The Details

The Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals because of their race and certain other characteristics. House File 37 amends the MHRA to clarify that this prohibition includes traits associated with race, including but not limited to hair texture and hairstyles, such as braids, locs, and twists.

Next Steps

• Review dress codes, appearance policies, and training to ensure compliance with House File 37.
• 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.