A proposed new state law would allow young people to begin barber school at the age of 16.
State Representative Lisa Sobecki of Toledo introduced House Bill 542, which, passed the Ohio House last week by a vote of 82-0.
HB 542 contains revisions to Ohio’s barbering and cosmetology laws, including reducing the minimum age to start barbering school to 16.
“Currently, young Ohioans can begin cosmetology school at age 16, but have to wait to age 17 to begin barbering school,” Rep. Sobecki explained. “With this change, more young Ohioans will have the opportunity to jumpstart their career training earlier.”
The legislation was introduced to harmonize the barbering and cosmetology laws; in 2013 the two professions were put under the jurisdiction of the newly merged State Cosmetology and Barber Board.
“HB 542 cleans up the law and streamlines the licensing process,” she added.
The bill now will be considered by the Ohio Senate.
