California is on the verge of becoming the first state to ban discrimination against people with natural hair, according to reports.

The assembly voted 69-0 Thursday to update the state's anti-discrimination law so that the definition of "race" includes the "traits historically associated with race".

The bill, SB 188, was approved by the Senate in April and is now heading to Governor Gavin Newsom's office for promulgation.

"Dress codes and workplace grooming rules that ban natural hair, including afros, braids, twists and locks, have a different impact on blacks because they are more likely to deter candidates." black and impose or punish black employees to any other group, says the bill.

In February, the New York City Human Rights Commission announced similar protections against natural hair discrimination in workplaces and public spaces.