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SB 1228

Barbers and Cosmetology, Board for; employment prohibition, children 16 years of age or older.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lashrecse Aird

Virginia allows 16-year-olds to work in barbershops and cosmetology salons, expanding youth employment in personal care services effective July 1, 2025.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0198)
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Bill Summary · SB 1228

Legislative bill overview

SB 1228 modifies Virginia's employment regulations for the barbering and cosmetology industry by allowing children ages 16 and older to work in barbershops and cosmetology establishments. The bill removes or relaxes previous age restrictions that may have prohibited or limited such employment in these occupations.

Why is this important

This change affects workforce availability in the beauty and personal care services sector, potentially creating job opportunities for teenagers while also raising questions about workplace safety, working conditions, and labor protections in these environments. The effective date of July 1, 2025, gives the state time to implement any necessary regulatory updates.

Potential points of contention

  • Workplace safety concerns: Barbering and cosmetology involve sharp tools, chemicals, and heat sources that pose injury risks; whether 16-year-olds receive adequate safety training and supervision
  • Labor protection standards: Whether teenage workers have sufficient breaks, limited hours, and protections against exploitation comparable to other age-restricted occupations
  • Industry competency: Questions about whether 16-year-olds can safely perform services on customers or whether they're limited to apprenticeship/training roles under supervision

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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