Summary:

 House Bill 281 (HB 281):  The bill exempts hair braiding from the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act, meaning people who braid hair exclusively will not be required to hold a barber, cosmetology, or hairstyling license, nor will they face disciplinary action for practicing hair braiding without a license. 

Legislation Overview:

 House Bill 281 (HB 281):  The following offers details of the proposed legislative bill:
Section 1 - (Amends §61-17A-2 NMSA 1978 — Definitions):
•	Adds “Hair Braiding” Definition - Defines “hair braiding” as twisting, wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, or braiding hair, and the incidental use of topical agents, mechanical devices, extensions, fibers, decorative beads, and other accessories.
•	Excludes Hair Braiding from “Hairstyling”
•	By clarifying what “hair braiding” means, the bill distinguishes it from barbering, cosmetology, or hairstyling activities that require licensure.
Section 2 - (Amends §61-17A-4.1 NMSA 1978 — Hairstyling Defined):
Excludes Hair Braiding:
•	Specifically states that “hairstyling” does not include hair braiding. This ensures braiding is no longer treated as a licensed hairstyling practice.
Section 3 - (Amends §61-17A-5 NMSA 1978 — License Required):
•	License Not Required for Hair Braiding
•	Adds a provision that no license is needed for those who only perform hair braiding (similar to eyebrow threading).
•	Makes it clear that the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act does not apply to hair braiders operating solely within that scope.
Section 4 - (Amends §61-17A-21 NMSA 1978 — Grounds for License Refusal, Suspension, or Revocation):
•	No Disciplinary Action for Hair Braiding
•	Prohibits the board from suspending or revoking a license because someone is braiding hair without a barber, cosmetology, or hairstyling license before July 1, 2025.
•	Essentially safeguards individuals who practice hair braiding from penalties for unlicensed practice.
Section 5 - (Amends §61-17A-22 NMSA 1978 — Exemptions):
Hair Braiding Exempted:
•	Removes eyebrow threading from the list of examples (since it’s already exempt in prior sections) and clarifies the law’s focus on hair braiding as well.
•	Confirms that hair braiding is exempt from the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act in the same way that eyebrow threading and certain other practices are exempt.
Section 6 - (Effective Date):
•	Takes Effect on July 1, 2025
 

Current Law:

 Current Law does not address “Hair Braiding” requirements.  The Law currently details requirements for Barbers & Cosmetologist in terms of schools, grants and licenses.  

 

Amendments:

 Amended March 1, 2025 in HCEDC.

HCEDCa/HB 281: The following amendment has been proposed to the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee – 
 HOUSE BILL 281
 1.  On page 7, line 9, strike "suspended, revoked or"