FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 6341

C 51 L 04

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Concerning the licensing of cosmetologists and others under chapter 18.16 RCW.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Commerce & Trade (originally sponsored by Senator Oke).

Senate Committee on Commerce & Trade

House Committee on Commerce & Labor

House Committee on Appropriations

Background: Cosmetology relates to the care of: (a) hair on the scalp, face and neck; (b) nails on the hands and feet; and (c) the skin. Barbering, manicuring and esthetics concern a narrower range of functions within the practice of cosmetology. The Department of Licensing (DOL) regulates all of these professions.

In 2002, an advisory board recommended, and the Legislature made, several changes in the licensing and regulation of the cosmetology industry. Definitions of the various practice areas were refined to create fewer overlaps in the functions performed under each license, and the training requirements for manicurists and estheticians were increased. The 2002 legislation also allowed currently licensed cosmetologists to obtain separate licensing in manicuring and esthetics without additional examination, provided the request was submitted prior to July 1, 2003.

Summary: A person who held a cosmetology license any time between June 30, 1999, and June 30, 2003, has until July 1, 2005 to renew that license and to request an additional license in barbering, manicuring and/or esthetics, without meeting the current training and examination requirements. Barbers, manicurists, and estheticians who were licensed during the same period may also renew those licenses under the same circumstances. DOL must mail a written summary of this act to the affected cosmetologists, barbers, manicurists, and estheticians that have currently valid addresses on file with DOL.

Engaging in the commercial practice of, or instructing in the practice of, cosmetology without the benefit of a license "in good standing" is unlawful. DOL is authorized to take disciplinary action against applicants and licensees that engage in such unlawful practices, or who violate the Consumer Protection Act.

An "inactive" licensing status is created. A person holding an "inactive" license cannot engage in the licensed activities until the license is returned to "good standing" status. A person returning to "good standing" status from "inactive" status must pay only a two-year renewal fee, and may be required to take refresher training on changes in health standards and other requirements that occurred while the licensee was "inactive."

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate       47  1

House       95  1    (House amended)

Senate       48  0    (Senate concurred)

Effective: March 22, 2004