Effective October 1, 2020, the definition of race under Maryland discrimination laws has been expanded to also include traits associated with race such as hair texture, afro hairstyles and other protected hairstyles such as braids, twists and locks. The expansion of the definition will prevent employers, leasing agencies and landlords, places of public accommodation, and other licensed professionals covered by the act from discriminating against an individual due to various hairstyles which may be associated with race.
