PHOENIX – Governor Doug Ducey today signed SB 1401, legislation sponsored by Senator Michelle Ugenti-Rita to remove excessive and unnecessary occupational licensing requirements to blow dry hair. The bill exempts people who only blow dry, shampoo and style hair from burdensome cosmetology regulations meant for more technical salon services. The legislation fulfills a priority called for in Governor Ducey’s 2018 State of the State.
“Today is a victory for common sense,” said Governor Ducey. “It’s ridiculous that government bureaucrats would require 1000 training hours before someone can start a job blow drying hair. This bill ends that foolishness. People deserve the opportunity to work without jumping through needless government hoops. Arizona will continue to be a state that welcomes opportunity.”
“This bill allows people to get to work,” said Senator Ugenti-Rita. “By getting rid of expensive and time-consuming requirements for employment, Arizona is opening up opportunity. Thank you to Governor Ducey for signing this common sense legislation that removes barriers keeping people from advancing in their careers.”
In his 2018 State of the State address, Governor Ducey called for reforming the requirements for blow drying hair, saying:
These same special interest bullies are at it again. This time, going after people who simply want to make a living blow-drying hair. No scissors involved. It’s the latest craze, and one where the government currently requires 1,000 hours of training. 25 weeks. More than an EMT, Certified Nursing Assistant, or a truck driver. Representative Ugenti-Rita has a bill to change that. Let’s get more Arizonans to work and get it passed.
Last week, Governor Ducey signed legislation making Arizona the first state in the nation to recognize out of state occupational licenses. Arizona’s licensing boards and commissions will now be required to recognize occupational licenses granted in other states during the licensing process, something already done for spouses of military personnel deployed to Arizona. The bill ensures public health and safety protections for jobs that require background checks or other safety requirements. Read more about the bill HERE.
