The bill establishes a new barbering license and apprenticeship program to enhance training and professional standards in the barbering industry. It introduces definitions for "general barber" and "barbering apprentice," and outlines the practices included in general barbering, such as shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, as well as shaving and massaging the face. The New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling is tasked with reviewing qualifications for licensure and apprenticeships, administering examinations, and maintaining records of licensed professionals and students. The bill also updates definitions within the cosmetology and barbering fields, adding roles like "skin care specialist" and "hair braiding specialist," while emphasizing sanitation and safety in training programs.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to expand the approved curricula for licensed schools, requiring comprehensive training in various cosmetology and barbering disciplines. It introduces new requirements for barbering and general barbering apprenticeship certificates, mandates record-keeping for chair or booth rental licenses, and clarifies conditions for service provision without a license. The bill prohibits misleading advertising practices and outlines consequences for non-compliance with licensing requirements. It also establishes a pathway for initial licensure as a barber through apprenticeship certification and includes a pilot program for out-of-state barbers to practice in New Jersey under supervision. The act is set to take effect on the first day of the thirteenth month following its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:5B-3, 45:5B-6, 45:5B-7, 45:5B-8, 45:5B-9, 45:5B-9.1, 45:5B-10, 45:5B-11, 45:5B-12, 45:5B-12.1, 45:5B-13, 45:5B-14, 45:5B-15, 45:5B-16, 45:5B-21, 45:5B-25, 45:5B-28, 45:5B-31, 45:5B-38