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HB 477

The "Crown Act"; authorize to prohibit discrimination based on natural or protective hairstyles.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Orlando Paden

Mississippi bill prohibiting discrimination based on natural and protective hairstyles died in committee without advancing to full legislative vote.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 477

Legislative bill overview

HB 477, known as the "Crown Act," would prohibit discrimination based on natural or protective hairstyles in Mississippi. The bill aims to protect individuals from facing employment, housing, education, or public accommodation discrimination because of hairstyles associated with natural hair textures, such as braids, locs, twists, and coils.

Why is this important

Natural hairstyles, particularly those worn by Black individuals, have historically faced workplace and institutional restrictions, sometimes forcing people to chemically alter their hair or adopt different styles to comply with dress codes. Prohibiting such discrimination addresses a documented civil rights concern and recognizes that these hairstyles are cultural expressions and natural characteristics rather than unprofessional choices.

Potential points of contention

  • Business autonomy vs. anti-discrimination: Critics may argue that employers should retain discretion over appearance standards, while supporters contend that hairstyle discrimination is akin to other protected characteristics and unfairly targets certain groups
  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what qualifies as "natural or protective hairstyles" and how broadly or narrowly the bill should be written could affect implementation
  • Regional acceptance: Mississippi's conservative legislative climate may view the bill as unnecessary federal-style intervention, though supporters argue state-level protection fills a gap in existing civil rights law

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

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