Bill > HB4793

This bill modifies the requirements for apprenticeships and professional licenses regulated by the West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists, aiming to lower age requirements and broaden apprenticeship opportunities. Specifically, it lowers the minimum age to become an apprentice from 16 to 14 years old and allows individuals to become apprentices in a wider range of professions, including barbers, cosmetologists, aestheticians, nail technicians, and hair stylists, whereas previously it was limited to barbers and cosmetologists. The bill also introduces a new definition for "apprentice" to encompass these expanded roles and allows licensed or certified practitioners to sponsor apprentices in their specific field, with sponsors needing at least five years of experience. Furthermore, it clarifies that apprenticeships can be recognized as equivalent to beauty school for licensing purposes, provided all necessary requirements are met, and allows apprentices to attend appropriate schools for any classroom instruction not covered by the apprenticeship program.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4793&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill