Remember when we brought you the news about Illinois tightening their hair-braiding laws back in August 2009? At the time, the Illinois State Board of Cosmetology was requiring a full 1500-hour cosmetology license to work as a professional hair braider. Of course many of us were in an uproar and were hoping for a compromise that allows hair braiders to take a much shorter braiding-specific training course.
Well the verdict is in, folks! According to this article the state of Illinois heard you, and they now allow hair braiders to apply for a new hair braider license! The law took effect earlier this month, about two years after the initial controversy surfaced.
Even better? Experienced braiders who have been at it for years can apply for a license based on their experience in the field. FYI: This must be done before the end of 2012, so get those applications in! New braiders can get a hair braiding license with 300 hours of classroom and practical training.
We’re really proud of all the folks who stood up for the hair braiders’ cause, and so impressed with the Illinois cosmetology Board for listening to its constituents and accommodating this very important group of beauty professionals. Great work, everyone!
If you are interested in attending a beauty school in Illinois that offers a hair braiding program, search for schools near you and request more information from them to find out from each school whether they offer a 300-hour hair braiding program.
