West Virginia House Bill HB2298

West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/25
• Refer: 2/12/25

Caption

Relating to authorizing the Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists to promulgate a legislative rule relating to the schedule of fines

Summary

HB2298 authorizes the West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists to promulgate a legislative rule governing its schedule of fines. The bill specifically approves a rule that was filed in the State Register, revised to address objections from the Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee, and refiled for authorization. In practical terms, the measure gives legal effect to the board’s administrative rule setting fine amounts or fine structures for violations under its regulatory authority. The bill does not create a new licensing program or change the underlying scope of the board’s authority over barbers and cosmetologists; rather, it confirms that the board may enforce a fine schedule through rulemaking. The referenced rule is identified as 3 CSR 07, and the bill functions as the Legislature’s approval step for that rule to take effect under state administrative law.

Impact

HB2298 would amend West Virginia Code §64-9-1 to add authorization for the Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists’ legislative rule on the schedule of fines. Its effect is limited to validating the board’s administrative rulemaking and allowing the fine schedule to be enforced as part of the state’s regulatory framework for barbering and cosmetology. The bill primarily affects the board, regulated licensees, and any individuals or businesses subject to disciplinary fines under the board’s rules.

Sentiment

Based on the bill text and available context, the measure appears routine and administrative rather than controversial. There are no recorded committee transcripts or votes indicating strong opposition or debate, and the bill’s purpose is narrowly focused on approving a revised rule after review by the Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee. The overall sentiment is likely neutral to supportive, reflecting standard legislative approval of a technical regulatory rule.

Contention

The main potential point of contention is the underlying schedule of fines itself, since regulated professionals may be concerned about the size, consistency, or enforcement of penalties imposed by the Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. Any objections would likely center on whether the rule is too punitive or whether the board’s fine-setting authority is appropriately bounded. However, the available materials do not show specific disputes, and the bill appears to have been adjusted to satisfy the Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee’s concerns before refiled authorization.