The bill amends the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act to exempt hair braiding from the licensing requirements typically mandated for barbering, hairstyling, and cosmetology. Specifically, it introduces a definition for "hair braiding" and clarifies that individuals engaging in this practice will not be subject to disciplinary action for operating without a license. The bill also states that a person who engages in hair braiding or eyebrow threading is not required to hold a license issued by the board. Additionally, it specifies that a license shall not be denied for hair braiding without prior licensing in barbering, cosmetology, or hairstyling before July 1, 2025.

The bill further updates various definitions within the act, including those for hairstyling and the roles of different professionals in the beauty industry. It maintains the existing framework for licensing and disciplinary actions for other practices within the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act while ensuring that hair braiding is recognized as a distinct and exempt practice. The provisions of this act will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 61-17A-2, 61-17A-4.1, 61-17A-5, 61-17A-21, 61-17A-22
Final Version: 61-17A-2, 61-17A-4.1, 61-17A-5, 61-17A-21, 61-17A-22