A bill aimed at reducing regulatory barriers for natural hair braiders in Louisiana, House Bill 509, has passed the House with an overwhelming 86-6 vote and is now under consideration in the Senate. Sponsored by Representative Pat Moore of Monroe, the legislation seeks to define and exempt natural hair braiding from cosmetology regulations while establishing a framework for alternative hair design certification.
HB 509 defines “natural hair braiding” as twisting, wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, or braiding hair by hand or with mechanical devices like clips, combs, or curlers. It explicitly excludes practices involving dyes, reactive chemicals, or chemical bonding agents. The bill designates natural hair braiding as an “unregulated service,” exempting it from oversight by the Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology. This move aims to lower barriers for braiders, many of whom are African-American women who learn the craft informally from a young age.
The legislation also introduces a voluntary certification for “alternative hair design,” requiring 500 hours of instruction covering topics like bacteriology, sanitation, scalp care, and braiding techniques. Certified alternative hair designers would be permitted to advertise their services and work in licensed cosmetology salons, but natural hair braiders would not be required to obtain this certification or work in such facilities unless they choose to pursue the permit.
Proponents argue that the bill promotes economic freedom by removing costly and burdensome licensing requirements, which can cost between $10,000 and $25,000 for braiding education. Attorney Ariel Glover testified during House debates that Louisiana’s current regulations have fueled an “underground braiding trade,” as braiders face stricter licensing hurdles than other professions like tattoo artistry or real estate. Supporters, including Representative Moore, emphasize that natural hair braiding is a cultural practice that does not require the same oversight as cosmetology services involving chemicals.
However, critics, such as Representative Candace Newell, express concerns about consumer protections. They argue that the bill lacks requirements for continuing education or safeguards to ensure braiders do not perform unregulated chemical treatments. Some House members also raised issues about the lack of a renewal process for the alternative hair design permit, which could create enforcement challenges for the Cosmetology Board.
The bill further preempts local government ordinances that regulate natural hair braiding, ensuring statewide consistency. This provision has sparked debate about local control versus state authority, with some lawmakers wary of overriding municipal regulations.
As HB 509 moves to the Senate, it faces scrutiny over balancing deregulation with consumer safety. The legislation’s supporters hope it will empower braiders by reducing financial and regulatory barriers, while opponents seek stronger oversight to protect clients. The Senate’s deliberation will determine whether Louisiana joins other states in easing restrictions on this culturally significant practice.
