Missouri Lawmakers Want To Eliminate Cosmetology License Requirement

ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI)– Talk of de-regulating the barber shop and cosmetology industry, have licensed professionals sounding an alarm.

It’s a trend some salon and beauty school owners warn is crossing the country.

At Studio Branca, hair and manicure specialists must carry a state license, proof they have successfully completed state required training delivered by state licensed schools.

But now several lawmakers are trying to eliminate the license requirement and that has this industry very concerned.

Cosmetology school is much more than lessons on handling a sharp pair of shears. Hairdressers learn how to keep their clients healthy and uninjured.

Missouri House Bill 590 would eliminate the requirement that barbers and hairdressers and manicurists meet state licensing standards. Under the bill even licensure requirements for salons and cosmetology schools would become optional.

The measure is sponsored by Representative Andrew Koenig of West St. Louis County and Paul Curtman of St. Charles County. They argue cutting regulation will create jobs.

Manicurist Lynn Moser firmly disagrees.  She points out sanitation of equipment must occur between each client.

One state representative told me he’s never received more email about a subject than this proposal to make licenses optional for cosmetologists and barbers.

So far the sponsors of the measure have not returned our phone calls.  The bill is pending in the “downsizing state government committee.”