California bill would make some haircuts part of race

A new bill in the state legislature could change the way employers can tell workers how to look on the job. It is centering around hairstyles that some minorities consider to be a part of their ethnic identity.

Some state lawmakers are saying when it comes to the workplace, California must do more to protect from what they believe is discrimination. They argue some hairstyles, such as braids and dreadlocks, are associated with racial heritage and should be allowed and protected.

In a 37-0 vote, the California State Senate on Monday approved an update to the state’s anti-discrimination law. It makes hairstyles a part of a person’s race.

Armando Nunez works as a barber at Headquarters Barber Shop in Salinas. While he understands the reasoning behind the bill, he thinks businesses should have the discretion.

“If you’re going to work in a professional environment, then you do have to show up every day presentable, have nice hair, have nice clothes,” said Nunez.

This push in California is partly influenced by a case where an Alabama woman was not hired by a business because she would not cut her dreadlocks.

“I think that sucks because some people like that hairstyle and they grew it out for that long,” said Ronz Sabado, another barber at Headquarters.

The State Assembly will have to decide whether to support the bill before it heads to the governor’s desk to become law.