Updated to reflect forthcoming law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of hairstyles and head coverings historically associated with an individual's race or religion.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bill into law that protects hair textures and hairstyles tied to racial and cultural identity from discrimination in the workplace.
In new guidance, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) stressed that national origin discrimination under Title VII can include preferences for foreign workers, including workers with a particular visa status, over American workers.
More than 145 federal, state and local employment law requirements take effect on or around January 1, 2026, covering topics such as minimum wage, paid and unpaid leave, benefits, discrimination, payroll and more. Now is the time to review these developments and ensure your organization is ready to comply.