HB 1312: Worker freedom for eyebrow threading, applying makeup, and applying eyelash extensions

House Bill 1312, sponsored by Rep. Jerry Turner, will extend the repealer on the State Board of Cosmetology, while removing the licensing requirement for the safe practices of eyebrow threading, applying makeup, and applying eyelash extensions.

Each of these practices are extremely safe and do not involve cutting, coloring, or chemically treating hair. Threading is the practice of using a cotton thread to remove hair from eyebrows, upper lips, etc. Makeup artistry is the practice of doing makeovers, transforming, beautifying, or improving the appearance of an individual’s face. And extending eyelashes is the practice of applying artificial eyelashes with glue.

Currently, Mississippi either requires an estheticians or cosmetology license for these practices or does not explicitly permit the practice, leaving a gray area for the Board of Cosmetology to regulate.

This creates an entry barrier for workers who would like to perform this work, have the skills, but do not have either time or money to complete the training, which generally is not related to the work they will be doing. By enacting these laws, the state will reduce needless barriers and see an increase in individuals working in these fields.

We have seen it with hair braiders. After the state freed hair braiders of licensing requirements, the state has seen a boom with more than 2,600 hair braiders working in the state. And during that time, there have been zero safety complaints filed against braiders.

Empower Mississippi supports this legislation. 

It has been referred to Accountability, Efficiency, Transparency. You can read the bill here.