A bill aimed at exempting hair braiders and locticians from needing a cosmetology license has passed its second committee and is heading to the house floor for a full vote. Supporters say the bill is both economically and culturally significant. The bill’s sponsor, Janelle Anyanonu, argues that opponents of the bill do not understand the culture of braiding and dreadlocking. If the bill becomes law, braiders and locticians would still need a business license but would be able to operate out of their homes.
Support for the bill comes from the city of Albuquerque’s African American Community and Business Leader Liaison, Neema Pickett, who highlighted the importance of breaking down cultural barriers. Pickett shared her own experience of having to obtain a cosmetology license for a skill she learned from her community and family. The bill would allow braiders to charge for their services without facing the expensive and time-consuming process of obtaining a cosmetology license.
Opponents of the bill argue that exempting braiders from licensing could pose health risks, but Anyanonu countered these claims by explaining that braiders do not use harmful chemicals like hair relaxers. The bill’s fiscal analysis notes that exempting braiders from licensing could make it difficult to ensure public health and safety regulations are being followed in hair-braiding establishments.
The bill will now go to the Senate for approval if it passes the House vote.
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