The bill proposes to exempt hair braiding from the requirements of the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act in New Mexico. It defines "hair braiding" as the twisting, wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, or braiding of hair, including the incidental use of topical agents and mechanical devices. The bill amends existing definitions and clarifies that individuals engaging in hair braiding will not be required to obtain a license under the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act, nor will they face disciplinary action for practicing hair braiding without such a license.

Additionally, the bill specifies that a person who engages in hair braiding or eyebrow threading is not required to have a license issued by the board. It also states that a license shall not be denied for hair braiding without prior licensure in barbering, cosmetology, or hairstyling before July 1, 2025. The effective date for these provisions is set for 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