Legislation to Help Summa Hospitals, Barbering and Cosmetology Students Signed by Governor

COLUMBUS -State Rep. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) today announced that Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 158, legislation to update Cosmetology and Barber Board statues, into law.

The bill will reduce students' barriers to getting their barbering and cosmetology licenses. Amended into the bill is a provision allowing Summa Hospitals to keep its police force when switching from a not-for-profit to a for-profit hospital.

"The legislation will support our business and healthcare communities by updating barbering and cosmetology licensing and retaining the law enforcement at Summa Hospitals as they move from a non-profit to a for-profit hospital," said Roemer. "I am confident that these changes will benefit Ohioans in Summit County and across the state."

"House Bill 158 underscores the important role our police officers play in keeping people safe when working in and visiting our facilities and ensures their continued ability to protect and serve our community," said Summa Police Chief Keith Blough. "I want to thank Rep. Roemer and all members of the Ohio delegation for their ongoing support."

Other key provisions of the law include:

Creating a unified barbering/cosmetology school license, to eliminate duplicative applications for facilities that teach both cosmetology and barbering.
Enhancing license reciprocity from other states.
Reducing fines for disciplinary actions.
Establishing temporary pre-examination work permits for barbers.
Lowering the age to apply for a barber license or to start barbering school to 16 years of age.
Eliminating a requirement that a barber student complete 200 additional hours of training before re-taking the licensing exam.
Preventing the board from charging interest or penalty fees for unpaid fines.
Creating an independent contractor license, eliminating "shop within a shop" licenses.
Creating a process to designate a license as "inactive."
Allowing the board to independently set the passing score for the barber exam, rather than keeping it in statute.

House Bill 158 received unanimous support throughout the legislative process. The signed act will become law in 90 days.