The Nebraska legislature introduced Legislative Bill 561 (LB 561), the Cosmetology Licensure Compact (Compact), in January 2023. The Compact will simplify interstate cosmetology practice and regulation with the goal of reducing unnecessary burdens related to licensure by endorsement or reciprocity. Essentially, LB 561 will make it easier for licensed cosmetologists to work in other jurisdictions.
Once at least seven states pass the bill, cosmetologists in participating states will be able to obtain a multistate license, so long as they have no encumbrances against their license in their home state. The Compact will allow licensed cosmetologists to temporarily move from one compact state to another without long wait times to receive a new state license or a hiatus between practicing. LB 561 ultimately increases the mobility of lawfully practicing cosmetologists in compact-participating states by reducing long processing times.
If you believe an interstate license would benefit cosmetologists, write a letter to your representatives. You can find your representatives here. You can reference this advocacy email template to help write your letter.
AHP is in favor of LB 561 and sent a letter of support to Nebraska’s legislature. If you have questions about the Compact, please email us.
Note: The Compact is only for licensed cosmetologists and is not available to licensed barbers or licensed estheticians. Compacts for these professions may become available in the future.