Did Texas Pass the Crown Act? The Answer and Its Implications
The passage of the Crown Act in Texas has been a topic of significant interest and debate. This legislation, known as the “Crown Act,” aims to ban race-based hair discrimination in the workplace. So, did Texas pass the Crown Act? The answer is yes, but the journey to its adoption was fraught with challenges and discussions.
The Crown Act was first introduced in Texas by state Representative Senfronia Thompson in 2021. The act was inspired by a similar law passed in California in 2019. The main purpose of the Crown Act is to protect employees from discrimination based on their natural hairstyles, including dreadlocks, braids, twists, and afros. The act specifically targets industries such as beauty, fashion, and entertainment, where individuals with certain hairstyles have historically faced discrimination.
The Texas version of the Crown Act faced opposition from some business groups, who argued that it would impose unnecessary burdens on employers and potentially limit their ability to maintain a professional appearance in their respective industries. However, supporters of the act maintained that it was crucial to protect the rights of employees who have been marginalized based on their hair textures and styles.
After much debate and negotiation, the Texas Senate passed the Crown Act with a vote of 19-12 on May 26, 2021. The House of Representatives followed suit, passing the bill with a vote of 94-53 on May 27, 2021. Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill into law on June 15, 2021, making Texas the fifth state to enact the Crown Act.
The passage of the Crown Act in Texas has significant implications for the state’s workforce. It is expected to provide a safer and more inclusive workplace for employees with natural hairstyles, reducing the risk of discrimination and promoting diversity and equity. Additionally, the act may serve as a model for other states looking to address race-based hair discrimination.
However, some challenges remain. The Crown Act is not yet enforceable, as it will take effect on September 1, 2021. It is also important to note that the act only applies to employers with 15 or more employees, which means smaller businesses may not be directly affected. Moreover, the act does not cover all aspects of hair discrimination, as it focuses primarily on the workplace.
In conclusion, Texas did pass the Crown Act, marking a significant step towards ending race-based hair discrimination. While the act has the potential to create a more inclusive workplace, it is essential to monitor its implementation and effectiveness to ensure that it fulfills its intended purpose.
