Bill Proposes Deregulation of Natural Hair Industry
As those with natural hair know, it can sometimes be frustrating to search for a salon that caters to and understands textured strands. Receiving proper training when working with natural hair is so important in preventing any serious damage, breakage, or worse — hair loss. Now, natural hairstylists and barbers in Tennessee are pushing back against a bill that would impact their licenses. According to Localmemphis.com House Bill 1809, sponsored by Senator Mark Norris of Collierville, states that hairstylists would no longer need a professional license to work with natural hair. This bill is currently making its way through Tennessee’s general assembly, and if passed, would ultimately deregulate the natural hair industry.
Many licensed Tennessee hairstylists and barbers are joining together to work on fighting the bill, which has already been passed in the Senate. Tamika Turner, owner of Tennessee’s First Natural Hair School told LocalMemphis.com, “I see the result of [traction alopecia], the result of all types of damage.” If this bill gets passed, stylists that work with natural hair will not have to receive any professional training, nor will they be required to follow any rules put in place by the States’ Cosmetology brand.
“Deregulating natural hair is really saying that natural hair isn't important," says celebrity hairstylist Kendall Dorsey, who frequently works with Yara Shahidi. “The regulation is there to protect us as the professionals. We need to work on the proper education or the appropriate license for hair braiding, which is not included in cosmetology classes.”
In a time where natural hair has been celebrated and brought to the forefront of the beauty industry, it’s important that professionals — and the hair they style every day — are being protected.
“I wish every artist had a fair shot at the education needed for their specialized skill, especially braiding. I know it's hard to cover all skills and styles but I would like to see some headway made to protect everyone with relevant training," adds Kendall. "Regulation that works for both parties would be ideal, in a perfect world."
Image Credit: Courtesy of Instagram/@nathanielwood
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