Bill would exempt hair braiding from state cosmetology laws

Making it easier for hair braiders to start businesses is one goal of a bill approved by the House Government Operations and Elections Policy Committee on Wednesday.

Sponsored by Rena Moran (DFL-St. Paul), HF3664 would exempt hair braiders from registering with the state cosmetology board and make them exempt from laws governing cosmetology. It would also eliminate a $20 fee and a requirement that hair braiders complete an instructional program.

Lillian Anderson testifies before the House Government Operations and Elections Policy Committee March 21 in support of a bill that would exempt hair braiders from cosmetology registration requirements. Photo by Andrew VonBank

The committee approved the bill, as amended, and sent it to the House State Government Finance Committee. Its companion, SF2871, sponsored by Mark Koran (R-North Branch), is awaiting action by the Senate Finance Committee.

Rep. Cindy Pugh (R-Chanhassen), a co-sponsor of the bill, said it “cleans up the legal ambiguity” and would codify in state law the consent judgement in a case brought against the Board of Cosmetology, which prohibits the board from enforcing licensing on hair braiders.

Lillian Anderson, the plaintiff in that case, said she supports the bill because “braiding is a natural and safe thing” and “every braider should have the freedom to live the American dream and the right to earn an honest living.”

Pugh said this bill would make it easier for entrepreneurs to start businesses, get bank loans, open stores and hire employees. Currently 250 braiders work in Minnesota, she said.