MA H4216

Requires the Department of Children and Families to develop culturally appropriate hair care plans for each child in state custody, created in consultation with the youth, their parents, and foster parents based on the child's hair texture, curl pattern, and cultural identity

Mandates all department facilities, foster homes, and group homes maintain adequate supplies of culturally appropriate hair care products and provide children access to barbers and stylists experienced with their specific hair type

Prohibits cutting or altering a child's hair without consent (except for medical treatment) and bans discrimination based on hair texture, type, or protective hairstyles including braids, locks, and twists

Requires training for department staff, foster parents, and caregivers on culturally appropriate hair care practices, with regulations to be implemented within 6 months of enactment

Mandates annual reporting to the legislature on policy implementation, number of children served, implementation challenges, and recommendations for improvement