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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — A bill in the Illinois State Capitol aiming to help more people become professional hair braiders has passed the state’s House of Representatives.
The proposed bill would eliminate the need for braiders to have cosmetology licenses from the state. Proponents of the bill argue that fees from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation make the career less accessible.
Rep. Carol Ammons (D-Urbana), the chief co-sponsor, said this will increase entrepreneurship among the economically disadvantaged, as many women will be able to offer services in their home.
“Rolling back hair braiding licensing regulations restores opportunity for a handful of women and men, young and old, who have been hindered from growing their business professionally because of financial burdens when seeking licensure,” Ammons said.
All representatives voted for the bill. It now heads to the Senate.