FL S1286

Creates the Electrolysis Advisory Council within the Department of Health with three licensed practitioners appointed by the State Surgeon General for 3-year terms, replacing the previous board-supervised council with electrologist and consumer members.

Expands electrology regulation to include laser and light-based devices for hair removal or reduction, requiring licensed electrologists using such devices to obtain national certification and appropriate training as determined by the Board of Medicine.

Allows national examinations provided by department-approved electrology organizations to satisfy licensure requirements, and reduces required academic training to a maximum of 120 didactic hours.

Transfers primary regulatory authority from the Board of Medicine to the Department of Health for electrologist licensure, while allowing the board to request the Advisory Council's assistance in setting practice standards.

Adds penalties for practicing hair removal or reduction outside the defined scope in section 478.42(5)-(6) or 478.49, and authorizes the department to compel mental or physical examinations of licensees with possible court enforcement if they refuse.