State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering; create to license and regulate those two occupations.
Impact
One of the significant changes introduced by HB314 is the alteration of licensing requirements for cosmetologists and barbers. The bill proposes to reduce the minimum age and education requirements to obtain a license, remove the English fluency requirement for certain licenses, and allow for apprenticeship hours to count toward the required schooling hours. This is expected to lower barriers to entry into the profession and potentially increase the number of licensed professionals in the state.
Summary
House Bill 314 aims to create the State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering in Mississippi, which will be responsible for licensing and regulating both professions. This legislation amends various sections of the Mississippi Code of 1972, specifically focusing on updating the existing framework for the regulation of cosmetology and barbering. The newly formed board is to consist of nine members, appointed by the Governor, which reflects a diverse representation from professionals within the industry as well as the general public.
Contention
Noteworthy points of contention around HB314 involve debates over how the reduced education and licensing requirements may affect the quality of services provided by newly licensed cosmetologists and barbers. Opponents of the bill argue that lowering the bar could compromise public safety and service standards. Additionally, the legislative discussion may have included differing opinions on the makeup of the board and its impact on the regulation of these professions moving forward.
Occupations: cosmetologists; cut and color license option; provide for. Amends secs. 1201 & 1203a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.1201 & 339.1203a) & adds sec. 1207a.
Occupations: cosmetologists; shampoo services performed in a cosmetology establishment by certain cosmetology apprentices; allow. Amends sec. 1203a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.1203a).