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HB117
HB117: Updates on Discrimination Definitions and School Bullying Rules
Last scannedAug 24, 2026, 10:26 AM
In one sentence
This bill updates state laws to include hair texture and protective hairstyles in the definition of race, clarifies terms for housing and credit discrimination, defines bullying in schools, and requires the Department of Education to create student discipline guidelines.
What it does
- Changes the legal definition of 'race' to include traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles like braids, locks, and twists.
- Updates definitions for terms used in state discrimination laws regarding housing accommodations, real estate operators, brokers, financial institutions, and credit transactions.
- Defines bullying as unwanted verbal, physical, or social behavior among students involving a power imbalance that is repeated or has the potential to be repeated on school grounds, at events, or if it disrupts learning.
- Requires the Department of Education to work with various education groups and organizations to develop statewide student discipline guidelines by August 31 in even-numbered years.
Who it affects
- People seeking housing or credit who may face discrimination based on race, hair texture, familial status, disability, or other protected traits.
- School districts and the Department of Education regarding student discipline policies and bullying definitions.
- Real estate operators, brokers, financial institutions, and licensing agencies involved in property sales, loans, or employment standards.
Limits and unknowns
- The provided text ends before listing the full details of the student discipline guidelines.
- The effective date for when these new rules start is not listed in the source material.
- Specific penalties or enforcement steps are mentioned as existing laws but their exact amounts are not detailed here.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Protective hairstyles
- Hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists that are now included in the legal definition of race to prevent discrimination.
- Familial status
- A category including individuals under 18 living with a parent or guardian, pregnant people, or those securing custody of a minor.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
AN ACT relating to discriminatory practices against a person.