Title: An act relating to the cosmetology apprenticeship program.

Brief Description: Modifying provisions for the cosmetology apprenticeship program.

Sponsors: Senators Haugen and Benton.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Labor, Commerce, Research & Development: 1/26/06.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE, RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Staff: Alison Mendiola (786-7483)

Background: Historically, cosmetology students had to attend a licensed cosmetology school in order to become a licensed cosmetologist. In 2003, SHB 2202 created a two-year cosmetology apprenticeship pilot program which is set to expire on July 1, 2006. Under this program, students without a cosmetology license can work while being trained in their profession.

In order to become a licensed cosmetologist, an apprentice must: 1) be 17 years of age or older; 2) successfully complete the apprenticeship; and 3) pass the licensing exam.

SHB 2202 also created an advisory committee and required that a report be made to the Legislature by December 31, 2005.

Summary of Substitute Bill: The apprenticeship program is created. The apprentice training curriculum must include: 3,000 cosmetology hours; 2,000 barber hours; 2,000 manicurist hours; and 2,000 esthetician hours.

"Approved apprenticeship program" is a salon or shop that has been approved to participate in the apprenticeship program under RCW 18.16.280 and chapter 49.04 RCW.

A representative from an approved apprenticeship program conducted in an approved salon/shop is added to the state cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and manicuring advisory board.

An apprentice trainee actively enrolled in an approved apprenticeship program for cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, or manicuring may engage in the respective commercial practice as required for the apprenticeship program.

Approved apprentice programs must post a notice to consumers in the reception area of the salon/shop stating that services may be provided by an apprentice trainee.

Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill: The bill as referred to committee was not considered.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For: This bill is good for small businesses. Creating a direct-entry cosmetology program lets people who couldn't otherwise afford to go to school, to not only go to school but also get paid while working towards their cosmetology license.

Testimony Against: None.

Who Testified: PRO: Randy Loomans, Operating Engineers; Dennis Jensen, Salon Fifth Avenue; Jamie Valentine, Salon Fifth Avenue.