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HB 235

Prohibited Discrimination Based on Hairstyle

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Daryl Campbell and 5 co-sponsors

HB 235 prohibits discrimination in Florida's K-20 public education based on hairstyles linked to race, promoting inclusivity and protecting students' cultural identity.

1st Reading (Original Filed Version)
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Bill Summary · HB 235

Summary of HB 235: Prohibited Discrimination Based on Hairstyle

Bill Number: HB 235
Title: Prohibited Discrimination Based on Hairstyle
Status: Now in Education Administration Subcommittee
Introduced: October 21, 2025
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Sponsors: Driskell (primary), Campbell, Harris, Tendrich (cosponsors)

Purpose and Intent

HB 235, also known as the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act or the CROWN Act, aims to prohibit discrimination based on hairstyle within Florida's K-20 public education system. The bill seeks to ensure that students are not discriminated against due to hairstyles that are historically associated with race, thereby promoting inclusivity and respect for cultural identity.

Key Provisions

  1. Definition of Protected Hairstyle:

    • The bill defines "protected hairstyle" to include hair characteristics historically associated with race, such as:
      • Afros
      • Braids
      • Locks
      • Twists

  2. Prohibition of Discrimination:

    • Discrimination against students based on their protected hairstyle is explicitly prohibited in all public K-20 education programs and activities. This includes:
      • Admission to programs
      • Participation in activities
      • Employment conditions for staff

  3. Amendments to Existing Laws:

    • The bill amends several sections of the Florida Statutes:
      • Section 1000.05: Expands the definition of discrimination to include protected hairstyles.
      • Section 1002.20: Clarifies that educational programs must be offered without discrimination based on race, including traits associated with race such as protected hairstyles.
      • Section 1002.421: Ensures that private schools participating in state scholarship programs also comply with these antidiscrimination provisions.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students in K-20 Public Education: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are students in Florida's public education system who may face discrimination based on their hairstyles.
  • Private Schools: The bill also impacts private schools that participate in state scholarship programs, requiring them to adhere to the same nondiscrimination standards.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on October 21, 2025, and has since been referred to multiple subcommittees, including:
    • Education Administration Subcommittee
    • Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
    • Education & Employment Committee
  • As of October 28, 2025, the bill is currently in the Education Administration Subcommittee for further consideration.

Conclusion

HB 235 represents a significant step towards fostering an inclusive educational environment in Florida by addressing discrimination based on hairstyle. By defining and prohibiting such discrimination, the bill aims to protect students' rights and promote respect for cultural diversity in schools. The effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2026, pending further legislative action.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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