Ethnic hair care needs of the imprisoned: A new CA bill requires the CDCR to offer special shampoo

Assemblymember Tina McKinnor from LA County’s District 61 has introduced a new bill known as the Culturally Competent Hair Care Act or Assembly Bill 1875 (AB 1875). This bill aims to provide better hair care services to incarcerated individuals, particularly those with afro-textured hair, to meet their ethnic hair care needs.

Photo by SDOC News/MemoryMan via Adobe Stock

Understanding the Importance of AB 1875

Starting from Jan 1, 2028, CA CDCR and local detention facilities would be required to provide sulfate-free hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, curl creams, and gel if they have a store. This requirement is designed to cater to the specific needs of individuals with ethnic hair.

Addressing the Unique Hair Care Needs

Afro-textured hair requires special care due to its delicate nature and is more susceptible to damage from sulfates found in many shampoos. Assemblymember McKinnor’s new bill aims to ensure the availability of sulfate-free products and acknowledge the increased vulnerability of afro-textured hair to dryness and damage.

Photo bySDOC News

Promoting Hygiene and Well-being

Access to safe and affordable personal care products that cater to the needs of ethnic hair is crucial for incarcerated individuals, according to McKinnor. People of African descent often have curly hair, which can adversely affect the health of black individuals in custody when there are no suitable hair care products available.

The bill aims to promote basic hygiene and well-being among the incarcerated population by providing these products. It recognizes the importance of personal care in maintaining dignity and self-esteem.

Supporting Rehabilitation and Reintegration

AB 1875 provides necessary personal care products to incarcerated individuals to improve their well-being and support their successful reintegration into society. McKinnor highlights that access to appropriate hair care products can contribute to inmates’ overall health and self-esteem, helping them transition back into the community after their release.

Ensuring Culturally Competent Hair Care for Incarcerated Individuals in LA County

The Culturally Competent Hair Care Act recognizes the diversity of hair care needs within the incarcerated population, especially those with afro-textured hair. The bill prioritizes providing suitable hair care products, promoting physical well-being and cultural sensitivity for individuals in custody.

How can initiatives like AB 1875 contribute to broader conversations about the intersection of cultural sensitivity, personal care, and the justice system?