HARRISBURG – The General Assembly has approved a measure to provide cosmetology students with a streamlined process to obtain state licensure, according to Senator David G. Argall (R-29).
Argall sponsored a measure to allow cosmetology students to take one written examination after completing 80 percent of their coursework in an effort to boost licensure across the state.
Cosmetology students currently must pass a written and practical examination upon graduation from cosmetology school. The amendment Argall proposed would incorporate aspects of the practical test into a single written test. Argall believes this will provide students with a seamless transition from education to employment.
“The goal is to get these students jobs as soon as they graduate,” Argall said. “With this provision, students will be able to take the test while still enrolled in cosmetology school so that they can be licensed cosmetologists upon graduating. That’s good news for consumers and students alike.”
Representative Mario Scavello (R-176) introduced an identical measure in the House of Representatives.
“Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee Chairman Tomlinson worked hard with the various parties, and I’d like to credit him and his staff for bringing all the stakeholders together on this issue,” Argall said.
The bill was approved in the House of Representatives on Monday and signed into law by Governor Corbett on Wednesday.