Pennsylvania Expands Workplace Protections Under the CROWN Act: What Employers Need to Know for 2026

Effective January 24, 2026, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) is hereby amended to preclude discrimination based on an individual’s hair, hair texture, hairstyle, and head coverings in the workplace. 

Signed by Governor Josh Shapiro on November 25, 2025, House Bill 439, also known as the “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act” amended the PHRA’s definition of “race” to include traits historically associated with the individual’s race, including hair texture and protective hairstyles. The CROWN Act also amended the PHRA’s definition of “religious creed” to include head coverings and hairstyles historically associated with that religious creed. 

Employers may enforce hairstyle and/or head covering restrictions in the workplace if such enforcement is: (1) a valid workplace health and safety rule or policy, or (2) the rule or policy is justified as a bona fide occupational qualification. 

The CROWN Act applies to employers with at least for employees in the Commonwealth. Employers should review their personnel handbooks, dress code, and grooming policies to ensure legal compliance with these new requirements.

If you have questions or concerns about the CROWN Act, please contact one of our attorneys in the Labor & Employment group at 814-870-7600.

Legal Advice Disclaimer: The information presented on this website serves solely as general guidance and should not be construed as legal advice by MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP as a replacement for seeking personalized legal counsel from a qualified attorney. MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP does not assume liability for the accuracy or reliability of content hosted on any third-party websites accessible through links provided on this site.