MS HB1279

Creates a unified State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering composed of 10 members (5 licensed cosmetologists and 5 licensed barbers) appointed by the Governor with Senate consent for 4-year terms, replacing separate cosmetology and barbering boards.

Board members must have been licensed in their profession for 5 years with at least 10 years active experience; board chair rotates annually between cosmetologist and barber members.

Consolidates regulatory authority over both cosmetology practices (hair, nails, esthetics) and barbering practices under one board with unified rules, licensing requirements, and disciplinary procedures.

Establishes fee schedule for licenses, renewals, inspections, and school operations; no renewal fee required for licensees aged 72 or older for barbers or 70 or older for cosmetologists.

Repeals the separate State Board of Cosmetology and State Board of Barber Examiners effective July 1, 2016, with the unified board becoming operational July 1, 2014.