Nevada lawmakers consider reform bill to ease barber licensing regulations

On April 4, 2025, the Nevada Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor convened to discuss Assembly Bill 225, which aims to reform regulations in the barbering and cosmetology industries. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the current licensing requirements that many believe hinder economic opportunities for skilled professionals in Nevada.

Tracy Simon, co-owner of Get a Haircut Barber Shop in Las Vegas, provided compelling testimony about the challenges faced by barbers due to restrictive state laws. Simon shared her personal experience of how her husband, a seasoned barber, was unable to work in Nevada without first obtaining a state-specific license, despite his extensive experience and qualifications from California. She emphasized that the bill would facilitate greater reciprocity for out-of-state licenses and allow barbers and cosmetologists to work together in the same establishment, which she described as a common-sense reform necessary for the industry’s growth.

Laniqua McCall also voiced her support for the bill, highlighting the barriers faced by individuals, particularly women, who wish to braid hair as a means of economic empowerment. She noted that 36 states have already adopted similar reforms, and urged legislators to support the bill to promote entrepreneurship and accessibility in the beauty industry.

However, the meeting also featured opposition to the bill. Ayesha Goins expressed concerns about the timing and readiness for such reforms, suggesting that while changes are needed, the current proposal may not be fully developed. William Horn, representing the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology, echoed these sentiments, stating that the board had proposed amendments to the bill that were not accepted. He raised issues regarding the training requirements for bridal services and the removal of late fees, indicating that these elements require further consideration.

The discussions during the meeting underscored a critical moment for Nevada's barbering and cosmetology sectors, as stakeholders grapple with balancing regulatory standards and the need for economic flexibility. The committee's decision on Assembly Bill 225 could significantly impact the future landscape of these industries, potentially easing the path for skilled professionals to enter the workforce and contribute to Nevada's economy. As the committee deliberates, the outcome remains pivotal for many aspiring barbers and cosmetologists in the state.