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Commission backs new hair‑styling license to speed entry into cosmetology workforce
Summary
TASER approved a final report recommending Tennessee create a hair‑styling specialty license requiring fewer training hours than the full cosmetology/master barber credential, arguing it could lower costs and speed workforce entry.
The commission on June 22 approved a final report on cosmetology and barbering that recommends the state establish a specialty hair‑styling license to shorten education time and reduce the cost of entry into the industry.
Research Associate Cameron Fox, presenting the report prepared under Public Chapter 102 (Acts of 2025), summarized statewide industry trends: rising gross sales, growing numbers of salons and barber shops, and increased enrollment in Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) programs. The report noted the existing master barber or full cosmetology curriculum requires roughly 1,500 hours; a hair‑styling specialty license would focus training on hair services, allow fewer hours and reduce cost for students who only seek to provide hair‑related services.
Representative Parkinson and other members pressed staff on the data. Fox said BLS statistics do not fully capture self‑employed stylists (booth renters and small proprietors), and that the report added clarifications on braider certification and available incentives. The record shows 5,794 individuals had been certified as commercial hair braiders since the certification was enacted.
Representative Parkinson moved to approve the report and the motion carried by voice vote.
Why it matters: Lowering the time and cost barrier for people seeking hair‑styling careers could expand the state’s cosmetology workforce and shorten time to employment, particularly where wait lists for training exist.
What’s next: The report’s recommendation could inform potential legislative or regulatory changes to establish a specialty hair‑styling credential and set training-hour requirements.
