Celebrating a Milestone: Senate Bill 14 Signing and a Call to Advocate for Inclusivity

As Louisville Beauty Academy, a Kentucky State-Licensed Beauty College, stands at the forefront of bringing the latest updates on laws and regulations related to the beauty industry in Kentucky, the academy is committed to teaching students about the importance of law, safety, and sanitation. Today, they are excited to share the hottest and latest news with the community. The academy urges all community members to self-advocate for their rights and join forces to bring their voices to the table.

On June 3, 2024, the Kentucky State Capitol buzzed with excitement and a sense of accomplishment. Community leaders, business leaders, advocates, beauty industry professionals, licensees, students, and supporters gathered to witness a historic moment—the signing of Senate Bill 14 by Governor Andy Beshear. This event marked a significant milestone, celebrating the power of collective effort and the unwavering support from everyone involved.

A Testament to Collective Effort

The journey leading to the signing of Senate Bill 14 was one of dedication, resilience, and unity. Over the past year, hundreds and thousands of individuals came together with a shared goal: to improve beauty industry licensing, ensuring safe, sanitary, and professional services for the community. This celebration is not just about the passing of a bill but a recognition of the hard work and determination that brought this moment to fruition.

The relentless advocacy included:

  • Over 20 meetings with 100+ nail technicians, estheticians, cosmetologists, instructors, and community members.
  • Peaceful protests in challenging weather conditions to raise awareness.
  • Thousands of emails and letters sent to legislators and officials.
  • Extensive media coverage, both national and local.
  • Four new board members appointed to the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology, with the anticipation of adding the first nail technician and esthetician in history.
  • The first Asian woman appointed to the board.
  • Ongoing discussions about multi-language licensing exams, showing promising prospects.
  • Increased awareness and unity in the beauty industry, advocating for fair treatment by the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology.
  • Garnering support from thousands of licensees and community members nationwide.

These efforts led to unanimous support for Senate Bill 14 at every stage, a law primarily written to protect the beauty industry and ensure fair legal procedures for all licensees, salons, and schools. The law, effective in July 2024, also adds two new seats for a Nail Technician and an Esthetician to the board, expanding it to a 7-member board.

A Call for Continued Advocacy

While celebrating this significant achievement, it is crucial to remember that the work is not done. The Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology has not had a representative from the Louisville community for over 20 years. As the largest city in Kentucky, Louisville deserves representation on the board to ensure fair and inclusive governance.

For the two newly added seats for a Nail Technician and an Esthetician, Louisville Beauty Academy urgently calls on everyone to write letters to Governor Andy Beshear’s office, nominating themselves or others who are licensed nail technicians and estheticians from Louisville. The Governor’s office can be reached at [email protected] and [email protected].

The academy’s leadership, such as Di Tran, a Kentucky State Licensed Nail Technician with over 20 years of experience and a state-licensed Nail Technician instructor, urges the community to take this opportunity seriously. Nominations can include themselves, others they know best to serve, especially from Louisville.

Current Board Members:

  • Kerry Harvey, Chair – Consumer
  • Mickey Hobbs, Salon Owner
  • Lindsey Morgan, Salon Owner
  • Vacant, Nail Technician
  • Joni Upchurch, Technical Education
  • Lianna Nguyen, School Owner
  • Vacant, Esthetician

For more details, please visit the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology website.

In Closing

The academy extends heartfelt thanks to God, to each individual involved, to the state, and to the beautiful city. They appreciate the love, care, and relentless efforts put forth for each other and the small business community. This victory is a testament to what can be achieved together, but it also highlights the importance of continuing advocacy for an inclusive and fair government.

Let’s celebrate this achievement, but more importantly, continue to push for the representation deserved. Involvement and support remain as crucial as ever in ensuring a fair and inclusive governance structure for all.

Louisville Beauty Academy is also delighted to share this news, dedicated to staying up to date with the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology and beauty laws at both the state and federal levels. This achievement underscores their commitment to excellence and compliance, ensuring the community benefits from the highest standards of beauty education and practice.

Disclaimer: Louisville Beauty Academy does not endorse or support any specific candidates for the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology. All information shared is for informational purposes only. All inquiries regarding Kentucky state laws or regulations should be directed to the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology at [email protected].

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment. Together, a brighter, fairer future for the beauty industry and the community can be created.

Media coverage list for Senate Bill 14 progress from 2023 to today:

  1. https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/kentucky-nail-salon-owners-technicians-senate-bill-14/417-0d6235be-2649-48ad-b5a3-c15fb2d1f35a
  2. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2024/04/05/laws-for-the-beauty-industry-
  3. https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/24rs/SB14.html
  4. https://louisvillebeautyacademy.net/louisville-beauty-academy-a-beacon-of-inclusivity-and-excellence-celebrating-spectrum-news-coverage-and-the-unanimous-passage-of-senate-bill-14/
  5. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2024/05/10/lianna-s-nail-school-florence
  6. https://www.newsbreak.com/news/3400161628017-gov-beshear-passes-bill-updating-regulations-for-nail-salons-in-kentucky
  7. https://online.fliphtml5.com/ahotm/vkgc/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2MfxkjJCUsf9g3Je6Q0ElnD0QKJOb9z8B82hlpU_oT-zjNHtRmiL9mRo0_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw#p=63
  8. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2024/04/05/laws-for-the-beauty-industry-
  9. https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/senate-bill-14-passes-kentucky-legislature-nail-technicians-to-receive-opportunity-on-state-board/417-0e12847d-cccb-448b-838a-f6f86bc9d7df
  10. https://nkytribune.com/2024/02/opinion-john-schickel-sb-14-secures-a-fair-and-just-environment-for-kentuckys-small-businesses/
  11. https://www.wkyt.com/2024/03/07/kentucky-house-committee-passes-bill-that-would-make-changes-state-cosmetology-board/
  12. https://www.whas11.com/video/news/local/bill-to-help-nail-technicians-passes-kentucky-senate-heads-to-house/417-c7c57ea6-238b-455f-a2a1-b9e1352e8dce
  13. https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/senator-gerald-neal-bill-proposes-changes-to-kentucky-board-of-cosmetology/417-d4ad5bb4-76cb-48c3-b76e-61e05b9db9a4
  14. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/politics/2024/02/06/changes-to-the-state-cosmetology-board-could-be-coming
  15. https://kentuckylantern.com/briefs/beshear-appoints-former-justice-cabinet-secretary-to-cosmetology-board/
  16. https://www.lanereport.com/170837/2024/02/governor-appointed-leaders-to-kentucky-boards-and-commissions/
  17. https://www.facebook.com/SenatorSchickel/posts/pfbid02xMvWo3JSDoGCKDRS5rP5rvk6v3UfHC6X8Ffxxyz17XSCvXdBUnodvLyKcxd6qNqUl
  18. https://www.pbs.org/video/nail-tech-industry-asks-for-policy-changes-pjplv0/
  19. https://fox56news.com/news/kentucky/kentucky-nail-technicians-demand-licensing-tests-be-offered-in-multiple-languages/
  20. https://www.change.org/p/reform-the-kentucky-board-of-cosmetology
  21. https://www.change.org/p/reform-the-kentucky-board-of-cosmetology
  22. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2023/09/11/kentucky-legislators-meet-with-hundreds-of-mail-technicians-for-policy-concerns-
  23. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/politics/2024/01/22/nail-technicians-call-for-state-regulation-changes-
  24. https://www.whas11.com/article/news/investigations/focus/kentucky-nail-salon-cosmetology-board-louisville-bullying-racism-allegations/417-075ae5dc-5ccf-4d56-8801-5b42cd1b1075
  25. https://fox56news.com/news/kentucky/kentucky-nail-techs-go-head-to-head-with-the-board-of-cosmetology/
  26. https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/senator-gerald-neal-bill-proposes-changes-to-kentucky-board-of-cosmetology/417-d4ad5bb4-76cb-48c3-b76e-61e05b9db9a4
  27. https://vietbaolouisville.com/2024/01/beauty-and-brains-the-heartfelt-advocacy-of-kentuckys-highly-educated-beauty-professionals/
  28. https://vietbaolouisville.com/2023/10/upholding-democracy-the-crucial-role-of-voting-in-the-immigrant-and-asian-communities/
  29. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aoZjjY8Jyo
  30. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TESXE40VG1g
  31. https://www.facebook.com/SBTNOfficial/posts/pfbid02b7VDqw7ma46jmdr37ehcNniX4PMoUhVUWbeRwM9593hpoy4p5c84n9sta9dtToeSl
  32. https://vietbaolouisville.com/2023/09/community-advocacy-empowering-the-passage-of-a-senate-sponsored-bill-in-kentucky/
  33. https://fox56news.com/news/kentucky/kentucky-nail-techs-go-head-to-head-with-the-board-of-cosmetology/
  34. https://www.facebook.com/KYSenateDemocrats/posts/pfbid02WMWjVnuHabeqNAa2yrRZyZiRosZufAeewZjEyWJAbLQXVSmeMvjvBkg2RALR3hkCl
  35. https://fb.watch/sngUFBoh3I/

Cosmetology School: Your Gateway to a Legal and Professional Beauty Career

Understanding the Essence of Cosmetology Education

Cosmetology school, often referred to as beauty school, is a specialized institution designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and certifications necessary to excel in the beauty industry. It’s a place where aspiring beauty professionals receive hands-on training in various disciplines such as hair styling, nail technology, skincare, makeup artistry, and more. But beyond the surface-level allure, cosmetology school is a crucial step in ensuring that individuals meet the legal and professional standards required to practice in the field.

The Legal Landscape of Beauty Services

In the State of Kentucky, as in most states, it is illegal to perform any beauty service without a proper license. This regulation is in place to protect the public from unqualified practitioners who could potentially harm clients due to a lack of proper training and knowledge. Licensing ensures that professionals have undergone rigorous training and adhere to sanitation and safety standards, ultimately safeguarding the well-being of clients.

Why Cosmetology School is Considered Post-Secondary Education

Cosmetology school is classified as post-secondary education because it provides specialized training beyond high school, preparing students for a specific career path. It’s important to understand that cosmetology is not just about beauty; it’s a profession that requires a deep understanding of anatomy, chemistry, and even psychology to provide safe and effective services. Therefore, cosmetology education is recognized by law as a vital step in ensuring that beauty professionals are competent and qualified to practice.

Is Cosmetology School a College?

While cosmetology schools are not traditional colleges, they are specialized institutions that offer comprehensive training in the beauty industry. They are often referred to as “Clock Hour” colleges because, unlike traditional degree programs, the curriculum is based on clock hours. This means that students must complete a specific number of hands-on training hours to meet state licensing requirements. This approach is similar to clocking in for work, emphasizing the practical, career-focused nature of the education.

Can Cosmetology School Count Towards a Degree?

In some cases, the credits earned in cosmetology school can be transferred towards a degree program, especially if the school has articulation agreements with local community colleges or universities. This provides students with the opportunity to further their education and potentially expand their career opportunities within the beauty industry or related fields.

Conclusion: The Importance of Licensed Beauty Education

In conclusion, cosmetology school is much more than just a place to learn about beauty. It’s a legally recognized post-secondary institution that provides the necessary training for individuals to become licensed professionals in the beauty industry. By adhering to the state’s legal requirements and completing the required clock hours, aspiring beauty professionals can ensure they are fully prepared to provide safe and high-quality services, paving the way for a successful and fulfilling career in the world of beauty.

LOUISVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY ONLINE COURSE

At Louisville Beauty Academy, we are proud to offer a range of online courses designed for both personal growth and professional development. These courses provide an opportunity for individuals to enhance their skills and knowledge in the beauty industry from the comfort of their own home.

However, it’s important to note that according to Kentucky State Law as of 2024, online clock hours do not qualify for licensing by the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology. The Board specifically requires that all clock hours for licensing purposes be completed through on-site study. We encourage students to consider this regulation when planning their educational journey in the beauty industry.

https://courses.louisvillebeautyacademy.net/

Senate Bill 14 Passed all stages at 03-25-2024 5pm

Understanding Senate Bill 14: A New Chapter for Kentucky’s Beauty Industry

On March 25, 2024, a significant piece of legislation, Senate Bill 14, was unanimously passed by the Kentucky General Assembly, heralding a new era for beauty professionals across the state. This act, meticulously shepherded through the legislative process by Senator Reginald Thomas, aims to refine and enhance the regulatory framework governing the beauty industry, with a particular focus on cosmetology, esthetic practices, and nail technology. It was signed into law in March 19th, 2024.

Effective Date: July 1, 2024

Kentucky typically enacts new laws like Senate Bill 14 to become effective 90 days after the adjournment of the legislative session, as dictated by Section 55 of the Kentucky Constitution. This standard is followed unless a specific effective date is mentioned or an emergency measure is invoked. Senate Bill 14 will therefore become effective on July 1, 2024.

This 90-day period allows for administrative preparation by state agencies, such as the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology, to update regulations and procedures. It also provides time for industry adjustment, where professionals and businesses can prepare to comply with new rules, and for public information campaigns to educate both service providers and consumers about the changes. This structured timeline ensures a smooth transition into the new regulatory environment, minimizing disruption and enhancing the law’s effectiveness across the community.

Key Highlights of Senate Bill 14:

  1. Scope of Practice: The bill clearly delineates the boundaries of practice for cosmetology, esthetic practices, and nail technology, ensuring that these professions are solely focused on cosmetic purposes and not on treating physical or mental ailments.
  2. Licensing Requirements: It reaffirms that individuals must obtain the appropriate licenses to engage in cosmetology, esthetic practices, or nail technology for the public or for consideration, thereby upholding professional standards.
  3. Expanded Board Composition: The Kentucky Board of Cosmetology will now include seven members, with specific representation for licensed nail technicians and estheticians, ensuring a broader representation of the beauty industry.
  4. Emergency Powers and Enforcement: The board is empowered to take emergency actions to protect public health and safety and can refer violations to legal authorities for prosecution.
  5. Retesting for Nail Technician Applicants: Nail technician applicants who fail a written theory test or an oral practical demonstration are allowed to retake that portion after one month from the date of receiving notice of the failure.
  6. Use of Callus Graters: The bill explicitly permits the use of callus graters for callus removal by instructors, students, cosmetologists, and nail technicians, providing clarity on permissible practices.

Senate Bill 14 is a testament to the collaborative efforts of legislators, industry professionals, and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to ensure that Kentucky’s beauty industry continues to thrive while maintaining high standards of professionalism and safety. This legislation not only strengthens the regulatory framework but also paves the way for a more inclusive and representative governance structure within the beauty industry.

REMOVED CLAUSE

The removed section gave the Kentucky Board of Cosmetology strong powers to enforce rules, but it also had the potential for misuse. Here’s a simpler explanation:

  1. Legal Actions: The board could take people or places breaking the rules to court. However, this power could be misused to target certain businesses unfairly, like closing down nail salons on the spot during inspections without proper cause.
  2. Emergency Orders: The board could quickly act to stop dangerous situations. But this could be abused if, for example, a salon was shut down immediately based on unverified claims, causing harm to the business.
  3. Lawsuits and Criminal Charges: The board could sue or charge rule-breakers with crimes. However, there were concerns that this power was used harshly against certain businesses, like delaying their appeals for months with the intention of causing harm.

By removing this section, the board’s ability to enforce rules remains, but there’s less chance for these powers to be misused against businesses like nail salons.

ADDED CLAUSE

The added clause in the legislation aims to make things fairer and reduce the chances of the board misusing its power. Here’s how:

  1. Emergency Orders: Before the board can issue an emergency order to shut down a salon, they must have strong evidence or a very good reason to believe that there’s a real danger to public health, safety, or welfare. This means they can’t just close down a salon without a solid reason.
  2. Hearing Procedures: If the board does issue an emergency order, they have to follow certain rules to decide if the salon can reopen. This gives the salon a fair chance to make their case.
  3. Warning Notices: Before taking serious action against a salon that’s otherwise following the law, the board has to give a warning notice. This notice must clearly explain what the salon did wrong and what they need to do to fix it. This way, the salon has a chance to correct the issue before facing harsher penalties.
  4. Legal Actions: The board can still take legal action against someone breaking the rules, but they have to do it through the court system in the county where the problem happened. This ensures that the process is transparent and fair.
  5. Referring Violations: The board can refer violations to legal authorities like county attorneys or the Attorney General, but this doesn’t mean immediate punishment. It allows for a proper legal process to take place.
  6. Use of Callus Graters: The board can’t make rules that stop instructors, students, cosmetologists, or nail technicians from using callus graters for removing calluses. This gives professionals the freedom to use the tools they need for their work.

Overall, these changes aim to make sure that the board’s actions are based on real evidence and that beauty professionals have a fair chance to respond to any accusations or orders.

MISCONCEPTIONS VS REALITY ABOUT THIS SENATE BILL 14

  • Misconception: The bill was only for Asians, specifically Vietnamese and Cambodian nail technicians and salon owners.
  • Reality:
    • The bill is for all Americans, promoting fairness in the beauty industry.
    • It aims to include nail technicians and estheticians on the regulatory board for better representation.
    • It allows all candidates to retake licensing exams within a specified time until they pass, ensuring equal opportunities.
    • The bill highlights the significant contributions of the immigrant community to Kentucky’s economy and society.
    • Louisville Beauty Academy has graduated over 1,000 students, the majority of whom are immigrants from all around the world. On any given day, there can be speakers of more than five different languages in a class.
    • The bill supports workforce development, enabling more people to work safely and quickly in the beauty industry.
    • It ensures fair treatment and protection for beauty professionals and promotes accountability for those in positions of power.
    • The bill is about all Americans, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in the beauty industry.

REFERENCES

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/24rs/SB14.html

https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators/Pages/Legislator-Profile.aspx?DistrictNumber=113

The Paramount Importance of Personal Hygiene at Louisville Beauty Academy

In the dynamic world of beauty and cosmetics, one principle remains steadfast: the unwavering commitment to personal hygiene. At the heart of this commitment is the Louisville Beauty Academy, where personal hygiene isn’t just a topic of discussion – it’s a mantra lived and taught every day.

Why Personal Hygiene is Crucial

Before a client even takes a seat at the salon table, there’s a silent yet potent agreement between them and the professional: mutual respect for personal hygiene. For professionals, this means spotless hands and appropriate attire, including gloves and masks when necessary. It’s not just about presenting a clean image; it’s about ensuring that both the technician and the client are protected from potential health risks.

For customers, on the other hand, it’s about acknowledging that personal hygiene is a collaborative effort. The best way to start any beauty treatment, especially nail services, is with clean hands. This reduces the risk of infections, ensures better adherence of products, and establishes trust between the client and the professional.

A Step Beyond the Norm at Louisville Beauty Academy

The instructors at Louisville Beauty Academy have taken the emphasis on personal hygiene a step further. They ardently believe and impart to their students that the best practice isn’t just for the professional to cleanse their hands – it’s for the client to do so too. The moment a client walks into the salon, it’s an encouraged practice for them to wash their hands. Not only does this save valuable time, but it also ensures their hands are thoroughly dried, paving the way for optimal nail service outcomes.

This proactive approach is more than just a standard procedure; it’s a testament to the academy’s dedication to excellence. It’s an acknowledgment that the best service begins even before the actual beauty process starts. By prioritizing and teaching this principle, Louisville Beauty Academy ensures that its graduates step out with not just skills but also a profound understanding of the significance of personal hygiene in the beauty industry.

An Investment in Future Beauty Professionals

The beauty industry thrives on trust. Clients trust professionals with their appearance, comfort, and health. This trust is built brick by brick, starting with the fundamental aspect of personal hygiene. At Louisville Beauty Academy, this isn’t just a lesson in the curriculum; it’s a value instilled in the heart of every student.

In conclusion, personal hygiene serves as the cornerstone of the beauty profession. It’s the unsung hero behind every successful beauty treatment. Through the steadfast commitment of institutions like Louisville Beauty Academy, the future of the beauty industry is not just talented – it’s hygienically impeccable.

Knowledge Sharing from the Trenches: Navigating the 2023 Beauty License Renewal Process

Hello fellow beauty professionals,

We’ve always been a community of resilience and adaptability. Whether it’s mastering the latest hair coloring technique, acing the perfect manicure, or troubleshooting a new skincare product, we’re constantly learning and growing. Today, I’d like to share some knowledge about the 2023 Beauty License renewal process that we’re all currently navigating.

On July 3rd, 2023, the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology (KYBOC) announced that they had resolved a system error that affected the brand new licensing management system. Implemented with the aim to simplify the renewal process, this new system can be accessed at https://kyboc.mylicenseone.com/. As many of you might be aware, this system faced an error during the initial days of the renewal period (July 1-3), which has now been rectified.

If you haven’t yet received your access code for your license renewal, please email the KY State Board immediately at [email protected] to request one. This is a crucial first step, and acting promptly will ensure you’re ready to start your renewal process.

The KYBOC is requesting that we email all our questions and concerns to the same address. I know it may seem frustrating, but I assure you that this method of communication will allow the board to address each of our queries effectively. Patience and constructive feedback are key during these times – let’s remember that we’re all in this together!

If you’ve faced any issues, even if they seem minor, it’s important to voice them. Our feedback will help create a record of requests that will assist the board in caring for our concerns accordingly. This open line of communication ensures that our voices are heard and helps improve the process for all beauty professionals in Kentucky.

Now, let’s talk about time. Our renewal window runs from July 1st to July 31st, 2023. Given the initial hiccup, I urge you all to act immediately. Begin the renewal process as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute pressure.

Renewing your license is not just a legal requirement, but it’s also a testament to our commitment to our profession. It demonstrates our dedication to upholding the high standards set by the KYBOC, and our shared goal of nurturing the beauty community in Kentucky.

I understand that change can be daunting, and the adoption of a new system can seem overwhelming. However, let’s view this as an opportunity to grow and adapt, traits that we, as beauty professionals, already possess in abundance.

Remember, we’re not alone in this process. If any of you have concerns or questions about your renewal process, please don’t hesitate to email [email protected]. Our success as professionals is tied to our ability to navigate challenges, and this is just another step in our journey.

Thank you all for your understanding and cooperation. Let’s continue to support each other during these times, ensuring that our vibrant industry continues to flourish in Kentucky.

Stay beautiful and keep shining!