Pennsylvania is now the 28^th state to enact legislation protecting employees from hair-based discrimination.

The “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act,” was signed into law by Governor Shapiro on November 25, 2025, and went into effect on January 24, 2026. This statewide law follows similar ordinances adopted by Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh in 2020. This Act was designed to confront longstanding biases that labeled natural hairstyles as unprofessional, a perception that has often resulted in racial or religious discrimination.

Key Changes to the PHRA

The CROWN Act prohibits discrimination based on hair types, styles, and textures that are associated with race, as well as head coverings associated with certain religions. It specifically amended the definitions of “race” and “religious creed” under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA), expanding protections for employees.

• “Race” now includes traits historically associated with race, including hair texture and protective hairstyles. “Protective hairstyles” includes, but are not limited to, such hairstyles as locs, braids, twists, coils, Bantu knots, afros, and extensions.

• “Religious creed” now includes head coverings and hairstyles historically associated with religious creeds.

What the CROWN Act Does Not Prohibit

Although the CROWN Act broadens protections, it does not prohibit all grooming policies. Employers may adopt and enforce hairstyle or head-covering...

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