House Bill No. 370, introduced by Representative Bayham, amends the Louisiana Cosmetology Act to establish a special permit for natural hair braiding services. The bill includes new definitions for terms such as "mechanical devices," "natural hair braider," "natural hair braiding," and "natural hair braiding service." It outlines the requirements for obtaining a special permit, which includes reviewing sanitation and safety training materials, passing a 20-question examination administered by the Louisiana Department of Health, completing an application, and paying a fee not exceeding $25. The bill also specifies that natural hair braiding services do not include the application of dyes or chemical agents to alter hair color or structure.

Additionally, the bill preempts local government ordinances that may regulate natural hair braiding services or practitioners, ensuring that the state law takes precedence. The provisions of this act will become effective on July 1, 2026. The amendments adopted by the House include increasing the number of exam questions for the hair braiding permit and clarifying the responsibilities of the Louisiana Department of Health in creating training materials and administering the examination.

Statutes affected:
HB370 Original: 37:563(13)
HB370 Engrossed: 37:563(13)
HB370 Reengrossed: 37:563(13)