SB172 Alabama 2024 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Rodger SmithermanSenator

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2024

Title

Prohibiting discrimination in employment and receipt of federal or state financial assistance based on an individual's hair texture or hairstyle

Summary

SB172 would ban discrimination in hiring, firing, pay, and access to state or federal financial assistance based on a person’s hair texture or hairstyle, and it creates a private right of action for violations.

What This Bill Does

It makes it unlawful for employers (with five or more employees) to discriminate against applicants or employees because of hair texture or hairstyle commonly associated with a race or ethnicity. It also prohibits discrimination in any program or activity that receives state or federal financial assistance based on hair texture or hairstyle. The bill allows individuals who are discriminated against to sue for remedies including back pay, damages if willful, and attorney fees, and it protects against retaliation. It defines key terms and sets an October 1, 2024, effective date.

Who It Affects

• Job applicants and current employees who could face discrimination based on hair texture or hairstyle in employment decisions.
• Employers with five or more employees (and their agents) and programs receiving state or federal financial assistance, who would be prohibited from discriminatory practices and could face civil action if they violate the law.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits employment discrimination based on hair texture or hairstyle; creates a civil cause of action for violations.
• Defines 'hairstyle' (braids, locks, twists, cornrows, afros, bantu knots, fades, etc.) and 'hair texture'; defines 'employer' and 'race or ethnicity' to include hair traits.
• Prohibits discrimination against recipients of state or federal financial assistance based on hairstyle.
• Prohibits retaliation against individuals who enforce, testify, or participate in investigations under the act.
• Allows courts to award back pay, damages (including liquidated damages for willful violations), and attorney fees; prohibits court costs against plaintiffs.
• Effective date is October 1, 2024.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Discrimination & Civil Protections