Brief Description: Providing for cosmetology apprenticeships.

Sponsors: Representatives McDonald and Conway.

Hearing Date: 3/4/03

Staff: Matt Cooper (786-7106).

Background:

Individuals training for a license in cosmetology (to include barbering, esthetics, and manicuring) must attend a cosmetology school licensed by the Department of Licensing (Department). A student in a cosmetology school may not earn a wage while working the required hours for a school program.

The requirements for licensing as a cosmetologist are:

•    be over the age of 17;

•    have graduated from a license cosmetology school; and

•    have received a passing grade on the appropriate licensing exam approved by the director.

The Department of Labor and Industries, along with industry organizations, establish requirements for state-approved apprenticeship programs.

Summary of Bill:

An apprentice in a state-approved cosmetology apprenticeship program is exempt from the licensing requirements. Apprentices may earn a wage while engaged in an apprenticeship program.

Individuals may become licensed by successfully completing a state-approved apprenticeship program and passing the appropriate licensing exam.

The Director of the Department may make rules regarding apprentices and apprenticeship programs.

Rules Authority: The bill allows the Director of the Department of Licensing to make rules regarding cosmetology apprenticeships.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.