This bill amends existing laws to increase the required hours for obtaining licensure as a teacher in cosmetology and hairstyling, as well as for massage and bodywork therapists. Specifically, it raises the requirement from 500 hours to 600 hours of instruction in both fields. For cosmetology and hairstyling teachers, the bill stipulates that the 600 hours must be completed at a licensed school in New Jersey or a comparable institution in another state or country. For massage and bodywork therapists, the bill similarly mandates 600 hours of class study in approved programs.

Additionally, the bill allows the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling and the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy to adopt necessary regulations immediately upon filing, which will remain effective for up to 545 days. This change aims to enhance the qualifications of individuals seeking licensure in these fields and to enable them to qualify for certain federal aid programs. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:5B-23, 45:11-60