S.751 - Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act of 2025; CROWN Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.751, the CROWN Act of 2025, aims to prohibit discrimination based on an individual's hair texture or hairstyle. The bill seeks to address historical and ongoing racial and national origin biases associated with hair, particularly affecting people of African descent. It amends existing federal civil rights laws to include protections against discrimination based on hair in federally assisted programs, housing, public accommodations, and employment.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the CROWN Act would expand the scope of federal civil rights laws to explicitly include hair texture and hairstyle as protected characteristics. This would provide legal recourse for individuals who face discrimination in various settings due to their hair. The Act seeks to create more inclusive and equitable environments in schools, workplaces, and housing.
Potential Benefits
- Provides legal protection against hair-based discrimination, particularly for individuals of African descent.
- Promotes inclusivity and diversity in schools, workplaces, and housing.
- Addresses historical biases and stereotypes associated with hair texture and style.
- Reinforces the principle of equal opportunity regardless of race or national origin.
- Clarifies and strengthens existing civil rights laws to cover hair-related discrimination.
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to increased litigation as individuals and organizations navigate the new legal landscape.
- Could create challenges in defining and applying the concept of "hair texture or hairstyle commonly associated with a particular race or national origin".
- Potential for unintended consequences or loopholes in the enforcement of the law.
- Some may argue that it infringes on personal freedom or business autonomy to set grooming standards.
- Risk of overreach or misuse of the law for frivolous claims.
Constitutional Alignment
The CROWN Act 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 Act seeks to further these constitutional principles. The Act's focus on preventing discrimination in federally funded programs, housing, public accommodations, and employment falls under Congress's power to enforce these amendments through appropriate legislation.
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).