Illinois Senate Passes Bill Protecting Religious Hairstyles in Private Schools

New legislation expands existing law to prohibit private schools from banning hairstyles associated with race, ethnicity, or hair texture.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:05am

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An abstract, textured painting with overlapping geometric shapes in warm gold, deep burgundy, and cool blue, conveying a sense of motion and energy around a community issue.The Illinois Senate's passage of a bill protecting religious hairstyles in private schools signals a legislative push for greater inclusivity in education.Decatur Today

The Illinois Senate has passed a bill that prohibits private schools from banning hairstyles associated with race, ethnicity, or hair texture. The legislation expands on the state's current law that already bans public and private schools from such prohibitions. Senator Mike Simmons, who sponsored the bill, said rabbis had approached him to include protections for religious hairstyles as well.

Why it matters

This bill aims to address discrimination against students, particularly those from minority backgrounds, who may face restrictions on their hairstyles in private school settings. Supporters argue it is an important step in promoting inclusivity and protecting religious freedom in education.

The details

The new legislation builds upon Illinois' existing CROWN Act, which stands for 'Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair.' The original law banned discrimination against hairstyles associated with race and ethnicity in public and private schools. The updated bill now also prohibits private schools from banning hairstyles that are part of a student's religious practice.

  • The Illinois Senate passed the bill on April 18, 2026.

The players

Mike Simmons

An Illinois state senator who sponsored the bill to expand religious hairstyle protections in private schools.

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What they’re saying

“Rabbis asked me to include protections for religious hairstyles as well.”

— Mike Simmons, Illinois State Senator

What’s next

The bill will now move to the Illinois House of Representatives for consideration.

The takeaway

This legislation demonstrates Illinois' commitment to ensuring students of all backgrounds can freely express their racial, ethnic, and religious identities through their hairstyles without fear of discrimination in private school settings.