AR HB1177

Establishes the Natural Hair Braiding Protection Act exempting natural hair braiding from regulation under Arkansas Code Title 17, Chapter 26 and from the authority of the Cosmetology Technical Advisory Committee, State Board of Health, and Department of Health.

Defines natural hair braiding as twisting, wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, or braiding hair by hand or mechanical device, including use of extensions, topical agents, and wig-making, but excluding application of dyes, chemical straightening agents, or chemical hair joining bonds.

Allows individuals to practice natural hair braiding and operate establishments without certification, though certification is available through three pathways.

Provides streamlined certification for practitioners with two consecutive years of experience as of December 31, 2015, requiring only a $30 registration fee and supporting affidavits.

Requires new practitioners or those asserting reciprocity from other states to complete health/safety courses (80 hours), scalp care courses (40 hours), pass written examinations, and pay a $30 registration fee every two years.