RELATING TO THE COSMETOLOGY LICENSURE COMPACT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino and 8 co-sponsors

SB 1619 allows Hawaii to join the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, enabling licensed cosmetologists to practice across states, boosting mobility and service access.

Pass First Reading

#adoption #beautyculture #cosmetologylicensurecompact #dcca #governor #rules

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 1619 (SB 1619) aims to facilitate the adoption of the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, which is designed to streamline the licensing process for cosmetologists across participating states. The bill seeks to enhance mobility for licensed cosmetologists, allowing them to practice in multiple states without the need for redundant licensing procedures.

Key Provisions

Adoption of the Compact: The bill proposes that the state of Hawaii join the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, which would allow licensed cosmetologists to practice in other member states under certain conditions.

Regulatory Framework: The bill outlines the establishment of a regulatory framework that will govern the compact, including:

Interstate cooperation: Member states will share information regarding licensing and disciplinary actions.
Standardized practices: The compact aims to create uniform standards for education and practice among member states.

Implementation: The bill includes provisions for the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) to oversee the implementation of the compact and ensure compliance with its regulations.

Affected Parties

Cosmetologists: Licensed professionals in Hawaii will benefit from increased mobility and reduced barriers to practice in other states.

Consumers: The bill may enhance consumer access to licensed cosmetologists across state lines, potentially improving service availability.

State Regulatory Bodies: The DCCA will have new responsibilities in managing the compact and ensuring that Hawaii adheres to its terms.

Legislative Timeline and Actions

Introduced: January 23, 2025

First Reading: January 27, 2025

Committee Referrals: Referred to the Committees on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health (CPN) and Ways and Means (WAM).

Public Hearings:

CPN held a public hearing on February 7, 2025.
WAM held a public decision-making session on February 19, 2025.

Amendments: The bill has undergone several amendments during its readings and committee reviews, resulting in the current version (SD 2).

Passage: The bill passed its third reading in the Senate on March 4, 2025, with a vote of 23 in favor and 2 against. It has been transmitted to the House for further consideration.

Conclusion

SB 1619 represents a significant step towards modernizing the licensing process for cosmetologists in Hawaii by joining the Cosmetology Licensure Compact. If enacted, it will facilitate greater professional mobility and enhance the regulatory framework for cosmetology practice across state lines. The bill is currently under consideration in the House following its successful passage in the Senate.

Bill