Connecticut Passes CROWN Act

Connecticut recently passed the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act. The Act makes it illegal for employers to discriminate based on a hairstyle related to a person’s race. Under the Act, “race” is defined as “inclusive of ethnic traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles. “Protective hairstyles” include, but are not limited to wigs, headwraps, and hairstyles such as individual braids, cornrows, locs, twists, Bantu knots, afros and afro puffs.

In comments made at the time Governor Lamont signed the bill, he explained that the Act was passed so that employees and applicants are not judged based on their hairstyle, but are instead considered based on their work product, commitment, dedication and work ethic.

Employers should review their dress and grooming codes to make sure they do not violate the new law, which became effective 3/4/21.