H.R.1638 - Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act of 2025; CROWN Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1638, the CROWN Act of 2025, aims to prohibit discrimination based on an individual's hair texture or style, particularly those associated with race or national origin. The bill addresses historical and contemporary biases, especially against people of African descent, in schools, workplaces, housing, and federally funded programs. It seeks to clarify and expand the scope of existing civil rights laws to include protection against hair-based discrimination.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the CROWN Act would provide legal recourse for individuals facing discrimination due to their hair texture or style. This could lead to changes in workplace and school policies, promoting greater inclusivity and acceptance of diverse hairstyles. The bill also reinforces the federal government's role in enforcing civil rights and combating discrimination.
Potential Benefits
- Provides legal protection against hair-based discrimination, particularly for individuals of African descent.
- Promotes inclusivity and diversity in schools, workplaces, and housing.
- Reinforces the federal government's role in enforcing civil rights.
- Addresses historical biases and stereotypes related to hair texture and style.
- Could lead to more equitable opportunities in education and employment.
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to increased litigation as individuals and groups seek to enforce the new protections.
- Could create challenges in defining and interpreting what constitutes a "hairstyle commonly associated with a particular race or national origin".
- Potential for unintended consequences or loopholes that could be exploited.
- Some may argue it's an overreach of federal power into areas traditionally regulated at the state or local level.
- Possible resistance from individuals or organizations who oppose the expansion of anti-discrimination laws.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the spirit of the 13th and 14th Amendments, which aim to ensure equal protection under the law and prohibit discrimination based on race. By addressing hair-based discrimination, the CROWN Act seeks to further these constitutional principles. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) could be invoked to justify federal intervention in regulating employment and public accommodations to prevent discrimination that affects interstate commerce.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).