PARSIPPANY — The Assembly voted on Monday, October 29 to create a three-year pilot program in Passaic County allowing experienced barbers and hairstylists to work while waiting for a New Jersey license. Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce sponsors the legislation.
“Preventing experienced professionals from earning a living seems unreasonable,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “At the same time, we have to make certain those coming in meet state standards. This pilot program will show us if we should implement such a law statewide.”
The bill (A3443) is in response to concerns expressed by Passaic Mayor Hector Lora who said local immigrant barbers are not allowed to work while waiting for a state license, according to a NorthJersey.com article.
Experienced, licensed barbers and hairstylists licensed in another state or another country must apply for a license from the New Jersey Board of Cosmetology and pay a $100 application fee and a $39 written exam fee. Board approval can take up to six months. If the licensing standards of the home state or country do not meet state standards, an experienced barber may have to take courses that can cost $12,000.
The state Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling will evaluate the program and make recommendations to the governor and Legislature.
