Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB591

Introduced
3/21/23  

Caption

Further providing for definitions, for practice without license prohibited, for eligibility requirements for examination, for limited licenses, for requirements of a school of cosmetology, for practice in licensed salons only, for booth rental prohibited, for fees, for duration and renewal of licenses and for penalties.

Impact

If enacted, HB 591 will have a significant impact on the cosmetology profession by elevating the standards and requirements for both practicing professionals and educational institutions. It is intended to improve the consistency and quality of training received by aspiring cosmetologists by enforcing stricter licensing and operational protocols. Furthermore, the prohibition of booth rentals aims to combat unregulated practices within the industry, which could enhance consumer safety and professional accountability.

Summary

House Bill 591 aims to amend existing laws regarding cosmetology licensing and practice standards. The bill includes provisions for further defining practice without a license, eligibility requirements for examinations, and limited licenses for cosmetologists. Additionally, it delineates the stipulations regarding the operation of cosmetology schools and mandates that practice can only occur in licensed salons, while also prohibiting booth rentals in these establishments. These changes are designed to strengthen the regulatory framework governing the cosmetology industry within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 591 appears to be mixed. Supporters of the bill argue that these measures will professionalize and legitimize the beauty industry, thereby elevating consumer trust and service quality. However, there are dissenting voices within the beauty community, particularly among independent practitioners who may find the booth rental prohibition restrictive and harmful to their livelihoods. This divergence of opinions highlights the ongoing debate regarding the balance between regulatory oversight and individual business freedom.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions around HB 591 revolve around the impact of the booth rental prohibition and the implications for small businesses within the cosmetology sector. Critics express concerns that these changes could disproportionately affect independent operators who rely on flexible rental arrangements to support their businesses. The requirement for adherence to state licensing also raises concerns regarding accessibility and the potential for increased barriers for entry into the profession for newcomers who may struggle to meet the new demands.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB87

Further providing for eligibility requirements for examination and for apprentices in cosmetology salons.

PA HB2295

In cigarette sales and licensing, further providing for definitions, for licensing of retailers and for transfer of licenses.

PA HB644

Further providing for definitions; and repealing provisions relating to booth rental prohibited.

PA HB1583

Further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of board, for training and license required and exceptions, for qualifications for license, examinations, failure of examinations, licensure without examination, issuing of license, foreign applicants for licensure, temporary license and perjury, for continuing education, for practice of physical therapy and for physical therapist assistant, education and examination, scope of duties and certification.

PA SB1292

"licensed associate art therapist" and related titles; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal, records and fees and for unlawful practice.

PA HB1733

Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for exemption from licensure examination, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restriction on use of title "licensed professional art therapist" and related titles; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal, records and fees and for unlawful practice.

PA HB881

Further providing for title of act and for definitions; providing for short title; and further providing for license required, for exemptions, for qualifications for a license, for fee, financial statement and security, for liability of licensees, for licensee requirements and for agents.

PA SB202

Further providing for title of act and for definitions; providing for short title; and further providing for license required, for exemptions, for qualifications for a license, for fee, financial statement and security, for liability of licensees, for licensee requirements and for agents.

PA HB1050

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in games of chance, further providing for prize limits and for sales limited, providing for pull-tab deals, further providing for distributor licenses, for registration of manufacturers, for regulations of department and for licensing of eligible organizations; in club licensees, further providing for distribution of proceeds; and, in enforcement, further providing for revocation of licenses and providing for other penalties.

PA SB981

Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Recreational Therapist"; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice.

Similar Bills

MI HB5206

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.

MI HB4908

Occupations: cosmetologists; shampoo services performed in a cosmetology establishment by certain cosmetology apprentices; allow. Amends sec. 1203a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.1203a).

NJ S3503

Allows certain licensees of New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling to teach in private schools of cosmetology and hairstyling.

SC H3483

Blow-dry styling services

CA SB1363

Barbering and cosmetology.

NJ A3391

Revises membership of New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling.

NJ A1653

Revises membership of New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling.

NJ S3501

Revises membership of New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling.