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Committee defers bill to exempt natural hair braiders from cosmetology licensing
Summary
The House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce deferred HB1697 after testimony that the board recognizes braiding as within cosmetology scope but that a targeted sanitation certification could address safety concerns. Supporters argued 1,250–1,800 training hours are an undue barrier.
The House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce deferred HB1697 on Feb. 24, a bill that would exempt natural hair braiders from Hawaii cosmetology licensing requirements.
Alan Yim, executive officer of the DCCA Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, told the committee that the board has reaffirmed braiding is within the scope of cosmetology but has also concluded individuals who only braid are not currently required to hold licenses. "A broad exemption removes any sort of training to practice as a hair braider and ... there is public health risk when it comes to dealing with hair on hand," Yim said, summarizing the board's sanitation and enforcement concerns.
Courtney Fontaine of the Institute for Justice testified in strong support of the exemption, saying the state requires 1,250 training hours that largely cover cutting, coloring and chemical treatments not relevant to braiding and that the required training can cost more than $17,000. "These requirements create a significant barrier to entry, particularly for low income individuals and aspiring entrepreneurs," Fontaine said.
Ted Kipales of the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii also urged passage, arguing the current cosmetology-hour requirements do not fit braiding and noting many other states have exempted braiders without reported widespread safety problems.
Committee members pressed the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology about whether a short, standalone sanitation or health course could be required if the bill moves forward. The board said it did not have an immediate answer but would discuss possible standalone training and report back.
Chair comment indicated the committee expects to add certification or sanitation language before a final vote. For now, the bill was deferred so sponsors and the board can craft language to preserve basic sanitation standards while reducing the broader licensing burden.
Next steps: the committee will revisit HB1697 after the board provides options for a targeted sanitation certification.
