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Article published Jun 3, 2004
Lawmakers OK training for braiders
Associated Press
COLUMBIA -- Individuals who make money by
braiding hair would be required to undergo 60 hours of training under a bill
approved by lawmakers on Wednesday.Hair braiders have argued the service, which
is popular in tourist areas, should not require licensing.But the state Labor,
Licensing and Regulation Department's cosmetology board insisted the practice
requires a license.The cosmetology board originally demanded 1,500 hours of
training for braiders, then offered a compromise of 350 hours, even though the
agency currently does not have provide training.Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter,
D-Orangeburg, first opposed the bill, saying the training and $25 registration
fee would hurt braiders, many of whom she said are minority women. But
Cobb-Hunter withdrew her objections Wednesday after she said she was contacted
by braiders who preferred the 60 hours training to the other proposed
requirements.However, Cobb-Hunter said she intended to work to change the
requirements next year.Along with the hair braiding amendment, the bill also
establishes requirements for cardiovascular invasive specialists and for
pharmacies.The bill will become law if approved by the governor.