California Governor Newsom today signed a landmark bill into law requiring the inclusion of textured hair education in the state's cosmetology licensing requirements and curriculums, a notable achievement given California is home to the highest number of cosmetology schools in the US. The bill was championed by California Assemblywoman Dr. Akilah Weber and the Texture Education Collective, an alliance of professional hair industry leaders under the Professional Beauty Association.
The new law addresses a critical, long-standing gap in cosmetology training, which often overlooks the unique needs of textured hair, defined as hair that is coiled, curly or wavy. This benefits both professionals and consumers: Stylists will gain the skills and confidence to serve a wider clientele and grow their businesses, while consumers with textured hair, approximately 65% of Americans, will have access to a greater number of knowledgeable stylists. That means a more inclusive and equitable beauty industry where skilled professionals are equipped to serve everyone.
"California is proud to be the home of approximately 200 cosmetology schools, more than any other state in the nation. The enactment of this landmark textured hair education legislation means those schools can now train even more stylists to serve the diverse beauty needs of all Californians," adds California Assemblywoman Dr. Akilah Weber. "We are proud to be leading the way and urge other states to join us in ensuring that all hair professionals have access to standardized textured hair education."
Texture Education Collective, founded by Aveda, DevaCurl, L'Oréal USA and Neill Corporation, aims to pave the way for all consumers to feel welcomed, valued, understood, and seen when getting serviced by hairstylists while upholding the highest standards in health and safety.
"The Professional Beauty Association celebrates the signing of California's groundbreaking textured hair education bill," comments Myra Reddy, government affairs director for the PBA. "This victory fuels the Texture Education Collective momentum as we advocate for similar legislation across the nation, promoting consistent standards and excellence in beauty education from coast to coast."
Louisiana enacted a similar mandate in November 2021. Following this success, the TEC was founded and helped to champion the passing of New York's texture education legislation, (November 2023), followed by Minnesota and Connecticut (May 2024).
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