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Bill

HB 1673

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING BARBERS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Irvin and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1673 streamlines barber licensing in Arkansas, enhancing training standards and reciprocity for out-of-state barbers, benefiting both professionals and consumers.

Notification that HB1673 is now Act 436
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Bill Summary · HB 1673

Summary of House Bill 1673 (Act 436)

Bill Number: HB 1673
Title: To Amend the Law Concerning Barbers
Status: Enacted as Act 436 on April 3, 2025
Introduced: March 4, 2025
Amendment: Amendment No. 1 added Senator Irvin as a cosponsor

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1673 aims to update and amend existing laws governing the practice of barbering in Arkansas. The bill seeks to streamline the application process for barber licenses, clarify requirements for barber schools, and establish new provisions for reciprocity and examinations.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments to the Arkansas Code concerning barbers:

  1. Application Process:

    • Individuals or entities wishing to operate as barbers or barber schools must file an application with the State Board of Barber Examiners and pay the required fees.
    • Applicants must provide proof of at least 1,500 hours of barber training, along with identification documents.

  2. Reciprocity:

    • Barbers licensed in other states can apply for a certificate of registration in Arkansas if they have completed the requisite training hours and pay a reciprocity fee.
    • Specific provisions are included for those with foreign licenses, requiring a practical examination.

  3. Examinations:

    • Applicants who fail to pass the initial examination may reapply for future examinations conducted by the State Board.

  4. Lifetime Licenses:

    • Barbers who reach the age of 80 and hold a current license can request a personal lifetime license.

  5. Disciplinary Actions:

    • The bill clarifies grounds for disciplinary actions, including unprofessional conduct.

  6. Barber Schools:

    • Barber colleges must conduct a minimum of 1,500 hours of training for students, with specific guidelines on classroom and practical training.
    • Public education entities are exempt from securing a performance surety bond.

Impact

The amendments introduced by HB 1673 will affect:
- Barbers and Barber Schools: Streamlined processes and clearer requirements for licensure and training.
- Consumers: Potentially improved standards in barbering practices due to enhanced training and certification requirements.
- Regulatory Bodies: The State Board of Barber Examiners will have updated guidelines for managing applications and examinations.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 4, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • March 10, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • March 18, 2025: Amendment #1 adopted; bill passed in the Senate.
  • March 31, 2025: Bill correctly enrolled and transmitted to the Governor.
  • April 3, 2025: Enacted as Act 436.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1673, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the impact it may have on the barbering profession in Arkansas.

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

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