posted on: 07/01/2024
The New Jersey legislature introduced Assembly Bill 4630 (A 4630), regarding the Cosmetology Licensure Compact (Compact), in late June to simplify interstate cosmetology practice and regulation with the goal of reducing unnecessary burdens related to licensure by endorsement or reciprocity. Essentially, A 4630 will make it easier for licensed cosmetologists to work in other states.
Seven states have already passed the bill language: Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kentucky, Maryland, Tennessee, and Virginia. Cosmetologists in these Compact-participating states will soon be able to obtain a multistate license, so long as they have no encumbrances against their license in their home state. We think New Jersey should join these states by adopting the Compact. This will allow New Jersey-licensed cosmetologists to temporarily move from one compact state to another without long application wait times or a hiatus between practicing.
The Compact ultimately increases the mobility of lawfully practicing cosmetologists in Compact-participating states by reducing long processing times. Learn more about the Cosmetology Licensure Compact here.
Associated Hair Professionals is in favor of A 4630 and will send a letter of support to the New Jersey legislature ahead of the upcoming committee hearing. If you believe an interstate license would benefit cosmetologists, write a letter to your representatives. Please feel free to model your letter after ours and share your own experiences with lawmakers. You can find your elected officials here.
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.