The state of Pennsylvania just passed a law that went into effect early this September that requires hair braiders to get special licenses and have 300 hours of training through the Pennsylvania Board of Cosmetology.
Pennsylvania joins Florida, Louisiana, New York, South Carolina and Virginia in having their own braiding license process. So far, Maryland, Kansas, California and Arizona have exempted braiders from cosmetology laws.Last year, the state of Mississippi removed a requirement for braiders to have either a 1,500-hour cosmetology license or a 300-hour wig-specialist license. Through the new law, professional braiders only need to take a self-guided test and pay a $25 fee, as well as receive a basic brochure about proper sanitation and hygenic practices.
What's your opinion on this obviously cross-cultural issue? Braiding is an important facet of hair care for many African American women. What if your braider does not want to get the license? In some states, they risk getting fined up to $1000 for not being a "licensed cosmetologist."
Is braiding more of a hobby like crocheting, knitting, or beading? Is braiding more of an ethnic and cultural practice? Or more of an art form, with different lengths, widths, and styles of braiding?Is braiding an industry that needs to be regulated? Braiding doesn't require chemicals or special tools beyond patience, skill, and additional hair extensions, shampoo, and styling gels.
Don't forget the money aspect: braiding is popular in the African American <b>and</b> the African immigrant and refugee population. The skill of braiding may be a lifeline or even a lucrative position for a braider: fees run from $25-$45/hour on braids that may take up to 8 hours, and many clients return after a few months for more expert care.
What do you think? It's times like these that it's important to get organized and join up with others in your industry to advocate for your needs with your legislators. No one knows your side of the story until you speak up!
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