Senator Stewart, Rep. Morales Barber Services Bills Pass House and Senate, Head to Governor’s Desk for Signature

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) – In January 2019, Governor Ron DeSantis kicked off his Deregathon at Valencia College in Orlando. DeSantis was looking at ways to remove “harmful” professional licensing regulations, and highlighted barriers against licensed barbers.

On Wednesday, state lawmakers passed identical bills unanimously in the Florida House and Senate that would allow barbers to cut hair and offer other services outside of brick-and-mortar shops. The bills build on “sweeping licensing reform” in Florida that the governor signed into law in 2020.  The bill will now go to his desk for approval.

Identical companion bills SB 1176 by Senator Linda Stewart (D-Orlando) and HB 855 by Representative Daisy Morales (D-Orlando) will allow licensed barbers to shampoo, cut, or arrange hair in a location other than a registered barbershop.

“Convenience and comfort have been aiding in the way we conduct our everyday life since the pandemic began. Barbers should have the same ability as cosmetologists to practice their trade outside of their shop, and increase convenience and accessibility for all Floridians,” said Senator Stewart.

Barbers will still need to hold a valid license from the state to offer their services outside of licensed establishments, and the bill does not change any of the current licensing requirements.

“I’m grateful and excited this bill passed with bipartisan support in both chambers. We’ve leveled the playing field for barbers to thrive, extending more freedom to make outside location calls since cosmetologists are already providing mobile services for their clients,” said Representative Morales.

The bill will now move to the Governor’s desk, where it awaits his signature before becoming law.