Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends current law to allow cosmetologists to do hair braiding and other work traditionally done in black beauty shops in Pennsylvania.

Highlights:

• Defines cosmetology as work done for the embellishment and cleanliness of hair and nails through various methods of styling (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that natural hair braiding is also included in the definition of cosmetology (Sec. 1).

• Defines natural hair braiding as twisting, wrapping, beading, braiding, and accessorizing of hair, often accompanied by the use of topical agents such as gel and moisturizers (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits individuals from teaching and practicing cosmetology for compensation without a full or a limited license (Sec. 2).

• Requires individuals seeking to teach cosmetology to have a valid license, completed the 12th grade, undergone 500 hours of specialized training, and is at least 18 years old (Sec. 4).

• Requires applicants for a natural hair braiding license to complete 300 hours of training and can take a written exam once they have completed 250 hours of specialized training (Sec. 5).

• Requires schools of cosmetology to have practical demonstrations of sanitation and a teaching of theoretical requirements for nail technology and natural hair braiding (Sec. 6).

• Prohibits owners of cosmetology salons from renting a booth space (Sec. 8).

• Requires the board and Department of Health to create an accessible website that contains training videos and materials regarding sanitation and infection control (Sec. 14).

• Requires the practice of natural hair braiding to not be allowed to receive an exemption from licensing and tax regulations (Sec. 16).

• Authorizes that any individuals who violate this act may receive a fine of up to $1,000 (Sec. 20).

Full Bill Text