Unlicensed barbers in Florida will be allowed to perform restricted services under the supervision of a licensed barber, if a Senate bill become law.
Senate Bill 1148, proposed by Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, R-Doral, will allow practicing barbers to enhance their craft while they are supervised. The bill will allow the board to revoke and suspend any authorization to practice restricted barbering.
This bill comes as a result of unlicensed barbers cutting hair illegally in unlicensed shops. According to Florida DBPR, unlicensed barbering is a second-degree misdemeanor. DBPR is required by law to report any violation of this law. It is in the best interest of public safety, health and welfare that barbers are officially licensed before cutting someone’s hair, according to the state. Violations can cost up to $500. These violations include using or attempting to use a revoked license, impersonating a licensed, barber or advertising being a licensed barber, presenting someone else’s license.
As a licensed barber, you may also be penalized for violations such as operating in a new location without changing the location on your license. It is also illegal to operate with your license suspended.
Initially, it was also a violation to allow unlicensed barbers to practice barbering without being officially licensed. This bill would allow barbers to do so and develop young barbers the proper way.
Tallahassee barber JaJuan Perkins says he likes the idea behind the bill. He says it will allow him to help younger barbers.
“I think it’s great that I can now allow my younger guys to come in and perfect their craft. There’s nothing like practicing on a real person while being supervised by a professional,” Perkins said.
You must be 16 years of age and must complete at least 600 hours of training at a Florida barbering school, to be eligible for a license. Upon completion of the 600 hours, you must be determined competent by school official to sit for the barbering exam. Otherwise, you must complete a minimum of 900 hours of training. This is in addition to the required fee.
Justin Reid, a junior theater major at Florida A&M University, says he just started cutting hair over a year ago.
“I’ve been cutting hair for over a year now and it was very difficult just practicing on a doll. It’s much more effective when you practice on a real person with supervision,” Reid said.
If you are in violation of any of the restrictions, you are subject to consequences. This bill would go into effect on July 1, if it becomes a law.