CROWN Act reported out of committee

HARRISBURG, June 20 – State Rep. La’Tasha D. Mayes’ CROWN Act (H.B. 1394), which would end hair discrimination in Pennsylvania, was reported out of the PA House State Government Committee today by a 12-9 vote.

The CROWN Act would update Pennsylvania’s current anti-discrimination law to prohibit discrimination based on hair type, hair texture or hairstyle.

“I am thankful that the House State Government Committee reported the CROWN Act out of committee today,” Mayes, D-Allegheny, said. “Previously introduced by Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton, the CROWN Act did not receive consideration under a House Republican majority in 2021 and 2019. With the new House Democratic majority, we can now make progress to ensure all Pennsylvanians are equal by prohibiting hair discrimination.”

While the city of Pittsburgh, where Mayes’ district is located, passed a CROWN ordinance, similar to Philadelphia, Mayes’ legislation would prohibit hair discrimination for all Pennsylvanians.

“With this bill, people can live their lives to the fullest extent, without worrying about the hair that grows out of their head or the hairstyle they wear,” Mayes said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance the CROWN Act through to final passage on the House floor.”

Since 2019, 22 states, including Texas, have passed a CROWN Act into law. If passed in both chambers and signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania would become the 23rd state to enact the CROWN Act.

https://www.pahouse.com/InTheNews/NewsRelease/?id=129482