HB 2109 Summary

• Establishes a new Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing Act to consolidate and modernize licensing requirements for barbers, cosmetologists, and related practitioners in Hawaii.

• Creates a seven-member Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (2 barbers, 2 beauty operators, 3 public citizens) to oversee licensing, apprenticeships, examinations, and disciplinary actions.

• Reduces barber apprenticeship training requirements from 3,000 hours to 1,500 hours in approved barber schools, while maintaining 3,000 hours for on-the-job apprenticeship training.

• Increases penalty fines for violations from previous levels to $500 per citation and $500-$2,000 for licensed practitioners, with authority to suspend or revoke licenses.

• Repeals existing chapters 438 and 439 on barbering and cosmetology, transferring all functions and authority to the new board established under this act; effective January 1, 2050.