The state would overhaul its licenses for barbers, cosmetologists and hair salons under legislation that cleared the Assembly and is now headed to the guv.
Dems though worried the bills would lower state standards, hurt the industry and undercut patrons’ safety, with Rep. JoCasta Zamarripa, D-Milwaukee, saying the legislation was part of a Republican effort to further “demonize education.”
But Rep. Dale Kooyenga, R-Brookfield, said the legislation was about giving people greater opportunities and expanding opportunities for “meaningful work,” adding that it was “false advertising” to say the bills would roll back safety standards.
SB 108 would eliminate continuing education requirements for barbers, cosmetologists, aestheticians, manicurists and electrologists. Those facing discipline could still be ordered to take continuing education classes.
The bill, which passed on a voice vote, would also drop a requirement that someone licensed in another state as a barber, cosmetologist, aesthetician, manicurist or electrologist must have 4,000 hours of experience in order to obtain a license in Wisconsin.
They would have to complete a one-hour course on statutes and rules, and the bill would maintain current law that someone seeking a reciprocal license has never been disciplined by a licensing authority in another state to be eligible.
SB 109 would eliminate the barbering manager license and cosmetology manager license. Now, those who own a barbershop or beauty salon to employ at least one person as a manager who is a licensed barbering manager or cosmetology manager.
Instead, those shop owners would have to employ at least one person as a manager who is a licensed barber or cosmetologist.
That bill also passed on a voice vote.
