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Bill would add textured-hair instruction to cosmetology curricula
Summary
House Bill 1874 would require the Department of Licensing to add training on care, styling and treatment of textured hair to curricula for cosmetologists, barbers, aestheticians and hair designers; sponsors and industry groups testified in support and committee staff reported a fiscal note showing no fiscal impact.
The Senate Labor & Commerce Committee heard proponents supporting Engrossed House Bill 1874, which would require the Washington State Department of Licensing to add training on the care, styling and treatment of textured hair to the curricula for cosmetologists, barbers, aestheticians and hair designers. Marlon Yanes, committee staff, told the committee the bill passed the House 92 to 5 and that no companion bill exists in the Senate.
Why it matters: Supporters said current training and industry practice have left many people with textured hair underserved and that the change promotes equity and public safety by reducing harmful practices. Representative Melanie Morgan, the bill sponsor, told the committee that while the 2020 Crown Act prohibited hair discrimination, “a significant gap remains” because many licensed professionals have not received standardized training for textured hair.
Industry groups, educators and product manufacturers told the committee they back the bill. Brooke Davies of Cosmetologists of Washington United said members have highlighted “the lack of consistent offerings” on textured hair and urged the committee to ensure implementation supports smaller schools and apprenticeships. Intisar Benj, representing L’Oréal, and Sean Stearns, L’Oréal’s education lead, said the company and industry partners have developed curricula and digital materials that could support the training and that requiring demonstrations on multiple hair types should not add hours to existing programs.
The bill specifies four required training subjects: techniques for cutting, styling and chemically treating textured hair; instruction on products and tools designed for textured hair; best practices for hair and scalp health for textured hair clients; and cultural competency and historical education about textured hair. Committee staff said a fiscal note shows no fiscal impact.
Next steps: Committee members asked about continuing education and whether existing licensees would be required to retrain; proponents said the bill does not require currently licensed professionals to return to school but may spur continuing-education opportunities. The committee did not record a final vote at this hearing.
