HF 554 Summary

• Authorizes municipalities (towns and cities) to adopt and enforce licensing ordinances for barbering and cosmetology salons, with penalties up to $3,000 per violation or inspection.

• Prohibits municipalities from requiring salon workers to hold state occupational licenses or credentials based on personal qualifications, education, or training.

• Establishes inspection protocols allowing municipal inspectors to assess salon compliance with health, safety, and welfare standards, with 10-day compliance timelines for violations.

• Repeals all state-level licensing requirements for barbers and cosmetologists, eliminating the Board of Barber Examiners and Board of Cosmetologist Examiners and associated regulations.

• Provides consumer protections by making salon owners responsible for worker competence and allowing injured persons to recover attorney fees in civil actions.