PA HB439

Amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to expand the definition of "race" to include traits historically associated with race, specifically hair texture and protective hairstyles such as locs, braids, twists, coils, Bantu knots, afros, and extensions

Expands the definition of "religious creed" to include head coverings and hairstyles historically associated with religious practices

Allows employers to enforce health and safety rules or bona fide occupational qualification policies that impact these protected traits only if they demonstrate the rule prevents health/safety impairment, is adopted for nondiscriminatory reasons, is specifically tailored to the position, and is applied equally

Preserves employer ability to enforce workplace policies preventing hostile work environments if adopted for nondiscriminatory reasons and applied equally

Takes effect 60 days after enactment