Pennsylvania’s CROWN Act
Alexa Martin
Pennsylvania has joined several other states in prohibiting discrimination based on hair texture, protective hairstyles, and head coverings. On November 25, 2025, Governor Shapiro signed the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act (the “CROWN Act”). The CROWN Act expands the definition of “race” under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (the “PHRA”) to include hair texture and protective hairstyles. It also expands the definition of “religious creed” under the PHRA to include head coverings and hairstyles historically associated with religious creeds. In its 2022 annual report, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission reported that 916 complaints were filed asserting racial discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles historically associated with race. Effective January 24, 2026, the CROWN Act recognizes that hair is often tied to identity and culture and prohibits discrimination based on these traits. If you have questions about how the CROWN Act may impact you or your company, please contact a Labor & Employment Law attorney at Appel Yost.