On February 1, 2023, Governor Tim signed the Minnesota CROWN Act, which takes effect on August 1, 2023, and amends the definition of race under the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) to include traits associated with race, such as hair texture and hair styles including braids, locs and twists.
Next Steps for Employers
Employers should review and update their existing equal employment opportunity and non-harassment/non-discrimination policies to include updated language regarding the term race. In addition, employers should review and update their existing dress code and/or grooming policies to remove reference to any prohibition on hairstyles.
