Keeping Cosmetology and Barbering a Licensed Profession: Do you agree?
Recently, there has been a lot of chatter about the possibility of some states deregulating licensing for Cosmetologists and Barbers. There has been a lot of concern about this, so we thought we would take a minute to openly discuss what it means and what impact it might have on the salon and beauty industry and the professionals that work in it.
Why all the talk now? Indiana has a bill on the table to be reviewed on January 20, 2012 that would remove the requirement for salon professionals to hold a license to practice in the field.
What would it mean? If a bill like this is passed anyone could cut and color hair, do nails or provide a skin care service without being licensed.
Who Cares? Many Students, licensed stylists, barbers, nail technicians, estheticians and consumers are angered by the potential of a bill like this being passed. Some of the reasons people are angered over this are:
1. Sanitation/ sterilization –this is one of the most important things to learn in school. Without proper education on sanitation/sterilization you could spread diseases to others.
2. Using chemicals– without the knowledge and training on how to use and mix chemicals could cause a client to be burned or even someone’s hair to fall out.
3. Loss of jobs– some feel their job will be threatened and won’t make the money they have been making. Also, professional product distributors and beauty schools could be out of business.
4. Time/ money– some feel that all their time and money would have been wasted if this bill gets passed.
5. Quality– how will a customer know that the person performing the services is qualified to do so.
Watch this short video of a news segment in Indiana about the proposal.
Why would they consider this? Deregulation of licenses is often reviewed by many states due to certain budget requirements. When a state is in a period of budget deficit, they need to look at ways to cut spending. Often those targets are licensing boards. They are viewed as an expense that could potentially be eliminated.
As educators in this field, we are keeping on top this and feel that the skills learned in school are essential and an integral part of success. Even if a license is no longer required to practice cosmetology in Indiana or any other state, we feel the professional training our students receive at school will be essential to their ability to gain employment.
There is a petition going around to stop the bill from being passed in Indiana on Change.org. There is also a Facebook page dedicated to the cause Keep Cosmetologist Licensed.
Do you think people will go to someone to get their hair and nails done if they are not licensed? Would you? How do you feel about this? What are your concerns? Let us know where you stand on this issue. If you agree that licensing should be necessary – take action.
