Authorizes and directs an evaluation of the need for educating barbers on the health and safety aspects of their trade

BILL NUMBER:S1637A

Title of bill

An act to direct the conducting of an evaluation of the need for educat- ing barbers on the health and safety aspects of their trade

Purpose

To ensure that barbers receive sufficient training and education in the health and safety aspects of their trade and to protect the health of their clients.

Summary of provisions

Directs the Secretary of State, working with the Commissioner of Health and the Commissioner of Education and representatives of the barbering industry and barber educators to make a thorough evaluation of the need for educating barbers on the health and safety aspects of their trade. A report to the Governor and Legislature is required no later than April 1, 2009, including, but not limited to, recommendations on course content, the required number of hours and frequency for taking a course, if it is determined that such education is necessary to safeguard public health.

Existing law

- Article 28, General Business Law regulates the practice of barbering. Barber shops are required to comply with the State Sanitary Code or the New York City Health Code. An aspiring barber must satisfy certain requirements in order to enter the trade:

- complete an application and pay a fee;

- provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character;

- have a physical examination which shows freedom from any infectious or communicable disease;

- have completed elementary education;

- complete a course of study (500 hours) in a licensed school of barber- ing, plus 18 months of apprenticeship; OR

- study as an apprentice for two years under a licensed barber; OR Section One. The Legislature finds that, as part of the state's commit- ment to protecting the public health, it is important to ensure the health and safety of both barbers and their clients. The Legislature also finds that the safe use and sterilization of sharp instruments and knowledge of the proper techniques to prevent transmission of infection and disease are significant public health concerns. The Legislature further finds that, because most barbers choose the option of entering the trade by apprenticing to a master barber, rather than attending an accredited barber school, there arc many practicing barbers who have had no formal training and education in the health and safety aspects of

their trade. In addition, there is no requirement that barbers complete periodic refresher courses in the health and safety aspects of barber- ing.

Prior legislative history

S.2498A of 2007 06/23/08 Passed Senate S.113 of 2009 01/07/09 REFERRED TO HEALTH 01/06/10 REFERRED TO HEALTH

Fiscal implications for state and local governments

Unknown.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.