discrimination; prohibited; protective hairstyles

HB 2652 prohibits employment and educational discrimination based on "protective hairstyles" like braids, locks, or twists. It makes it unlawful for Arizona employers, labor organizations, and schools (including private nurseries, K-12, and colleges) to discriminate against individuals due to their hairstyle, race, or ethnicity. The bill defines "protective hairstyle" broadly and explicitly links it to race, stating that traits historically associated with race - including hair texture and protective hairstyles - are protected. This law directly affects employers and educational institutions across Arizona by requiring them to remove hairstyle-based barriers in hiring, training, and school policies.