Tex. Prop. Code Ann. §§ 301.001–301.171 § 301.0045
RACIAL DISCRIMINATION BASED ON HAIR TEXTURE OR PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLE.
Operative Text
Sec. 301.0045. RACIAL DISCRIMINATION BASED ON HAIR TEXTURE OR PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLE. (a) In this section, "protective hairstyle" includes braids, locks, and twists.(b) A provision in this chapter, other than a provision in Subchapter I, referring to discrimination because of race or on the basis of race includes discrimination because of or on the basis of a person's hair texture or protective hairstyle commonly or historically associated with race. Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 223 (H.B. 567), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2023.
Texas Property Code § 301.0045, effective September 1, 2023, expands the meaning of racial discrimination in the state's fair housing law to explicitly include discrimination based on a person's hair texture or protective hairstyle — such as braids, locks, and twists — when those traits are commonly or historically associated with race. This means that treating someone differently in a housing context because of these characteristics is treated the same as treating them differently because of their race. The provision applies to the broader chapter but does not extend to Subchapter I.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 301.0045, property owners and managers operating in Texas are expected to apply the same standards to all applicants and residents regardless of hair texture or protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, or twists. Compliant operators generally review their tenant screening criteria, lease terms, and community rules to ensure nothing singles out or penalizes hairstyles historically associated with race. Policies that restrict or discourage such hairstyles in housing contexts may now be treated as evidence of racial discrimination under the Texas Property Code.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section § 301.0045 of the Texas Property Code means that if you believe you were denied housing, subjected to different lease terms, or otherwise treated unfairly because of your hair texture or a protective hairstyle like braids, locks, or twists, that treatment may constitute racial discrimination under Texas fair housing law. Tenants who believe this provision has been violated can file a complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division or explore federal fair housing complaint pathways through HUD. Tenant-rights organizations in Texas can also help explain what documentation and steps are generally available to someone in this situation.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 28, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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