SB235 Summary

• Establishes "boutique services" as a new category of limited cosmetology services including braiding, threading, shampooing, and makeup artistry.

• Creates a separate "boutique services registration" for practitioners offering only these services, requiring at least two years of formal training or apprenticeship and compliance with salon safety standards.

• Removes "natural hair styling" as a separate licensed branch of cosmetology; existing natural hair stylist licenses remain valid through their expiration, after which licensees must register for boutique services instead.

• Expands the definition of "braiding" to include detailed techniques such as twisting, beading, coiling, crocheting, extending, locking, and wrapping, with allowance for topical agents but not chemical treatments.

• Requires continuing education (up to 8 hours per licensing period) for all cosmetology practitioners and boutique services registrants, including training on human trafficking identification.