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Senate committee approves measure allowing up to half of cosmetology theory to be taught remotely amid sharp debate
Summary
The Senate Education Committee advanced SB580 to permit up to 50% of theory instruction for cosmetology and barber clock‑hour programs to be delivered via distance education, while practicum hours must remain in person. Supporters cited access for single parents and disabled students; school owners and instructors warned of degraded hands‑on skills and accreditation risks.
The Senate Education Committee voted to advance SB580, a permissive bill that would allow cosmetology and barber schools to deliver up to 50% of required theory hours through distance education while keeping the practical practicum in person.
Senator Chesterfield, the sponsor, told the committee the bill does not compel schools to offer distance learning but codifies a permissive option that was used during the COVID emergency. "It is not mandatory at all," she said, emphasizing the measure would allow online theory but preserve hands‑on training for practicums.
Supporters — including students and proprietors of proprietary schools — said hybrid instruction…
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