Effective July 1, 2022, the definition of religion under the Virginia Human Rights Act is expanded to include any outward expression of religious faith, including:
- Adherence to religious dress and grooming practices; and
- Carrying or display of religious items or symbols.
Next Steps for Employers
Employers should review and update their existing equal employment opportunity, non-harassment/non-discrimination and religious accommodation policies to include updated language regarding the term religion. In addition, employers should review and update their existing dress code and/or grooming policies to remove reference to any prohibition on items that may be related to the tenants of a particular religion.
