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HB 885
Kentucky House•In Senate Committee
Summary
HB 885, aN ACT relating to cosmetology, was introduced in the House on Mar 4, 2026 by Rep. Deanna Frazier Gordon (R). It was referred to Committee on Committees, and last saw action on Mar 27, 2026: to Committee on Committees (S).
Record
Text
HB 885 has 1 roll call.
hb885/engrossed.txtUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1AN ACT relating to cosmetology.2 Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky:3SECTION 1. A NEW SECTION OF KRS CHAPTER 317A IS CREATED TO4 READ AS FOLLOWS:5 (1) A licensee shall not perform any service that goes beyond the stratum6germinativum layer, also known as the basal layer of the epidermis, unless7practicing under the direct supervision of:8(a) A licensed physician; or9(b) An advanced practice registered nurse as defined in KRS 314.011.10 (2) A licensee shall not perform any service regulated by another state board or11agency without the appropriate licensing for that service. For the purpose of this12subsection, "service" includes but is not limited to:13(a) Permanent makeup;14(b) Microblading; and15(c) Piercing.16Section 2. KRS 317A.010 is amended to read as follows:17 As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:18 (1) "Beauty salon" means any establishment, fixed or mobile, in which the practice of19cosmetology is conducted for the general public or for consideration;20 (2) "Board" means the Kentucky Board of Cosmetology;21 (3) "Cosmetologist" means a person who engages in the practice of cosmetology for the22public generally or for consideration, regardless of the name under which the23practice is conducted;24 (4) "Cosmetology" means the practice of:25(a) Hair styling;26(b) Esthetics; and27(c) Nail technology.Page 1 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1The practice of cosmetology does not include acts performed incident to treatment2of an illness or a disease;3 (5) "Cosmetology school" or "school of cosmetology" means any operation, place, or4establishment in or through which persons are trained or taught the practice of5cosmetology, esthetic practices, and nail technology;6 (6) "Esthetician" means a person who is licensed by the board to engage in esthetic7practices in the Commonwealth of Kentucky;8 (7) "Esthetic practices" means one (1) or more of the following acts:9(a) Beautifying, cleansing, cosmetic preparations, exfoliating, facials, makeup,10removal of superfluous hair, stimulation, tinting, tweezing, or waxing;11(b) Eyelash tinting, artificial eyelashes, or eyelash extensions;12(c) Use of lotions, creams, oils, antiseptics, or depilatories;13(d) Massaging the skin; and14(e) Providing preoperative and postoperative esthetic skin care, either referred by15or supervised by a medical professional, unless these acts are performed16incident to:171. Treatment of an illness or a disease;182. Work as a student in a board-approved school; or193. Work performed by a licensed massage therapist;20 (8) "Esthetic practices school" or "school of esthetic practices" means any operation,21place, or establishment in or through which persons are trained in esthetic practices;22 (9) "Esthetic salon" means any establishment, fixed or mobile[a place] where an23esthetician performs esthetic practices;24 (10) "Eyelash artistry" means the process of attaching semipermanent lashes or eyelash25extensions to natural eyelashes;26 (11) "Fixed salon" means a licensed, stationary, physical establishment where a27person licensed under this chapter practices cosmetology or any other servicePage 2 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1licensed or permitted under this chapter;2 (12) "Hair styling" means the practice of:3(a) Arranging, beautifying, bleaching, cleansing, coloring, curling, cutting,4dressing, manipulating, permanent waving, singeing, tinting, or trimming of5natural or artificial hair;6(b) Use of lotions, creams, and antiseptics; and7(c) Massaging and stimulation of the scalp;8 (13)[(12)] "Instructor" means any individual licensed to teach cosmetology, esthetics, or9nail technology who holds a corresponding license in cosmetology, esthetics10practice, or nail technology;11 (14)[(13)] "Limited facility[beauty salon]" means any establishment in which the12practice of shampoo and style services, makeup artistry, eyelash artistry,[ or]13threading, or any other service licensed or permitted under this chapter is[ are]14conducted for the general public or for consideration;15 (15)[(14)] "Limited stylist" means an individual licensed to perform shampoo and style16services;17 (16)[(15)] (a) "Makeup artistry" means applying cosmetic products to the face and18body.19(b) "Makeup artistry" includes:201. Corrective and camouflage techniques; and212. Airbrushing.22(c) "Makeup artistry" does not include:231. Face painting at carnivals or fairs; or242. Application of cosmetics when not done for consideration;25 (17) "Mobile salon":26(a) Means a licensed structure that moves on wheels where a person licensed27under this chapter practices cosmetology or any other service licensed orPage 3 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1permitted under this chapter; and2(b) Does not mean a licensed individual performing services at different3locations that are not licensed by this chapter;4 (18)[(16)] "Nail salon" means any establishment, fixed or mobile, in which the practice5of nail technology only is conducted for the general public or for consideration;6 (19)[(17)] "Nail technician" means a person who practices nail technology, including7manicuring and pedicuring real and artificial nails for the purpose of beautifying,8for the general public or for consideration. Manicuring and pedicuring real and9artificial nails for the purpose of beautifying includes:10(a) Cleaning;11(b) Trimming;12(c) Cutting;13(d) Shaping;14(e) Sculpting;15(f) Polishing; and16(g) Massaging the hands and feet of any human, for which a license is required by17this chapter;18 (20)[(18)] "Nail technology school" or "school of nail technology" means any operation,19place, or establishment in or through which persons are trained in nail technology;20 (21)[(19)] (a) "Natural hair braiding" means a service of twisting, wrapping, weaving,21extending, locking, or braiding hair by hand or with mechanical devices.22Natural hair braiding is commonly known as "African-style hair braiding" but23is not limited to any particular cultural, ethnic, racial, or religious forms of24hair styles.25(b) "Natural hair braiding" includes:261. The use of natural or synthetic hair extensions, natural or synthetic hair27and fibers, decorative beads, and other hair accessories;Page 4 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA12. Minor trimming of natural hair or hair extensions incidental to twisting,2wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, or braiding hair;33. The use of topical agents such as conditioners, gels, moisturizers, oils,4pomades, and shampoos; and54. The making of wigs from natural hair, natural fibers, synthetic fibers,6and hair extensions.7(c) "Natural hair braiding" does not include:81. The application of dyes, reactive chemicals, or other preparation to alter9the color of the hair or to straighten, curl, or alter the structure of the10hair; or112. The use of chemical hair joining agents such as synthetic tape, keratin12bonds, or fusion bonds.13(d) For the purposes of this subsection, "mechanical devices" means clips, combs,14curlers, curling irons, hairpins, rollers, scissors, needles, thread, and hair15binders;16 (22)[(20)] (a) "Shampoo and style services" means beautifying, cleaning, or arranging17the hair of an individual for consideration[ only at a limited beauty salon].18(b) "Shampoo and style services" includes any of the following services19performed on an individual's hair:201. Arranging;212. Cleaning;223. Curling;234. Dressing;245. Blow drying; or256. Performing any other similar procedure.26(c) "Shampoo and style services" does not include any service that:271. Is popularly known as a Brazilian blowout;Page 5 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA12. Includes color services, cutting, lightening, or chemically treating hair;2or33. Otherwise falls under the practice of cosmetology, except as authorized4in paragraph (b) of this subsection; and5 (23)[(21)] "Threading" means the process of removing hair from below the eyebrow by6use of a thread woven through the hair to be removed.7Section 3. KRS 317A.020 is amended to read as follows:8 (1) A[No] person shall not engage in the practice of cosmetology, esthetic practices, or9nail technology for other than cosmetic purposes nor shall any person engage in the10practice of cosmetology, esthetic practices, or nail technology for the treatment of11physical or mental ailments. This chapter does not apply to:12(a) Persons authorized by the law of this state to practice medicine, podiatry,13optometry, dentistry, chiropractic, nursing, or embalming who perform14incidental practices of cosmetology, esthetic practices, and nail technology in15the normal course of the practice of their profession;16(b) Commissioned medical or surgical personnel of the United States Armed17Forces who perform incidental practices of cosmetology, esthetic practices, or18nail technology in the course of their duties; and19(c) Cosmetology, esthetic practices, or nail technology services performed at an20institution operated or under contract to the Department of Corrections or the21Department of Juvenile Justice[; and22(d) Persons engaged in natural hair braiding].23 (2) Except as provided in subsection (1) of this section, a[no] person shall not engage24in the practice of cosmetology, esthetic practices, or nail technology for the public,25generally, or for consideration without the appropriate license required by this26chapter.27 (3) (a) A[No] person, unless duly and properly licensed or permitted pursuant to thisPage 6 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1chapter, shall not:21.[(a)] Act as a cosmetologist[Teach cosmetology, esthetic practices, or3nail technology];42.[(b)] Operate a beauty salon;53.[(c)] Operate an esthetic salon;64.[(d)] Act as an esthetician;75.[(e)] Operate a nail salon;86.[(f)] Act as a nail technician;[ or]97.[(g)] Conduct or operate a school for cosmetologists, estheticians, or10nail technicians; or118. Perform any other service regulated by this chapter.12(b) 1. Any person who practices, offers or attempts to practice, or holds13oneself out to practice cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology,14shampoo styling, or any other practice regulated by this chapter15without being licensed or permitted by this chapter shall, in addition to16any other penalty provided by law, pay an administrative penalty to the17board in an amount not to exceed one thousand five hundred dollars18($1,500) for each offense as determined by the board.192. The administrative penalty shall be assessed by the board in a ruling20after an administrative hearing is held in accordance with Section 7 of21this Act and KRS Chapter 13B.22(c) The board has the authority and power to investigate any and all unlicensed23activity involving services licensed under this chapter.24(d) The administrative penalty shall be paid within sixty (60) days after the25effective date of the order imposing the administrative penalty. The order26shall constitute a judgment and may be filed and executed in the same27manner as any judgment from any court of record.Page 7 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1 (4) A[No] person shall not aid or abet any person in violating this section, nor shall any2person engage or employ for consideration any person to perform any practice3licensed or permitted by this chapter unless the person to perform the practice holds4and displays the appropriate license or permit.5 (5) A licensed cosmetology, esthetic, or nail technology practice instructor, licensed6cosmetologist, licensed esthetician, licensed nail technician, licensed shampoo7stylist, or permit holder[No licensed cosmetology or esthetic practices instructors,8licensed cosmetologists, licensed estheticians, or licensed nail technicians] shall not9hold clinics for teaching or demonstrating for personal profit, either monetary or10otherwise, if the clinics are not sponsored by a recognized professional11cosmetologist's, esthetician's, or nail technician's group, or other beauty specialty12group for a service that requires a license or permit under this chapter.13 (6) Whenever a person engages in different practices separately licensed, certified, or14permitted by this chapter, that person shall procure a separate license, certificate, or15permit for each of the practices in which the person engages.16 (7) The board shall:17(a) Govern all issues related to this chapter;18(b) Investigate alleged violations brought to its attention, conduct investigations,19and schedule and conduct administrative hearings in accordance with KRS20Chapter 13B to enforce the provisions of this chapter and administrative21regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter;22(c) Administer oaths, receive evidence, interview persons, and require the23production of books, papers, documents, or other evidence; and24(d) Have the authority to take emergency action affecting the legal rights, duties,25privileges, or immunities of named persons without a hearing to stop, prevent,26or avoid an immediate danger to the public health, safety, or welfare, in27accordance with KRS 13B.125(1), subject to the following:Page 8 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA11. An emergency order shall be based upon verified probable cause or2substantial evidence, documented by the board, that the emergency3order is in the interest of public health, welfare, and safety of any4customer, patient, or the general public; and52. Upon the issuance of an emergency order, the board shall comply with6the administrative hearing procedures in KRS 13B.125(3) to determine7the reinstatement of operations of the licensed facility.8 (8) (a) Unless a documented and verified violation creates an immediate and present9danger to the health and safety of the public, a warning notice shall be first10issued prior to imposing incremental punitive action against an otherwise11lawful salon. The warning notice shall include a specific and detailed12description of the violation and the specific remediation required to bring the13salon into compliance.14(b) It shall be deemed an immediate and present danger to the health and safety of15the public if it is documented and verified that a licensee knowingly employs16or utilizes the services of an unlicensed individual.17 (9) The board may:18(a) Bring and maintain actions in its own name to enjoin any person in violation19of any provision of this chapter. These actions shall be brought in the Circuit20Court of the county where the violation is alleged to have occurred; and21(b) Refer violations of this chapter and any potential violations of other chapters22relating to the practice of cosmetology or any other practice regulated by23this chapter to county attorneys, Commonwealth's attorneys, and to the24Attorney General, or any other applicable enforcement arm[.25 (10) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit an instructor, student,26cosmetologist, or nail technician from using callus graters for callus removal, and27the board shall not promulgate any administrative regulation prohibiting the use ofPage 9 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1callus graters for callus removal].2Section 4. KRS 317A.030 is amended to read as follows:3 (1) There is created an independent agency of the state government to be known as the4Kentucky Board of Cosmetology, which shall have complete supervision over the5administration of the provisions of this chapter relating to the:6(a) Practice of cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology;7(b) Instruction of cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology;8(c) Salons where cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology are practiced;9(d) Schools where cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology are taught; and10(e) Practice, instruction, limited facility, or specialized course for any subset11skill of cosmetology, esthetics, or nail technology[cosmetology,12cosmetologists, schools of cosmetology, or esthetic practices or nail13technology, students, estheticians, nail technicians, instructors of14cosmetology, instructors of esthetic practices, or instructors of nail15technology, cosmetology salons, esthetic salons, and nail salons].16 (2) The board shall be composed of seven (7) members appointed by the Governor as17follows:18(a) Four (4) of the members shall have been cosmetologists five (5) years prior to19their appointment and shall reside in Kentucky:201. Two (2) of whom shall be cosmetology salon owners;212. One (1) of whom shall be a cosmetology teacher in public education and22shall not own any interest in a cosmetology salon; and233. One (1) of whom shall be an owner of or one who shall have a financial24interest in a licensed cosmetology school and shall be a member of a25nationally recognized association of cosmetologists;26(b) One (1) member shall be a licensed nail technician;27(c) One (1) member shall be a licensed esthetician;Page 10 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1(d) One (1) member shall be a citizen at large who is not associated with or2financially interested in the practices or businesses regulated; and3(e) None of whom nor the executive director shall be financially interested in, or4have any financial connection with, wholesale cosmetic supply or equipment5businesses.6At all times in the filling of vacancies of membership on the board, this balance of7representation shall be maintained.8 (3) Appointments shall be for a term of two (2) years, ending on February 1.9 (4) The Governor shall not remove any member of the board except for cause.10 (5) The board shall elect from its members a chair, a vice chair, and a secretary.11 (6) Four (4) members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any board12business.13 (7) Each member of the board shall receive one hundred dollars ($100) per day for each14day of attendance at board meetings, and shall be reimbursed for necessary15traveling expenses and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of duties16pertaining to official business of the board.17 (8) The board shall hold meetings at the place in the state and at the times deemed18necessary by the board to discharge its duties.19Section 5. KRS 317A.050 is amended to read as follows:20 (1) All applicants for licensure under this chapter shall meet the following minimum21requirements:22(a) [Be of good moral character and temperate habit;23(b) ]Be at least eighteen (18) years of age;24(b) Have a diploma, transcript, or examination that reflects completion of25secondary education approximate to the twelfth grade in public schools in26the United States[(c) Have a high school diploma, a High School27Equivalency Diploma, or results from the Test for Adult Basic EducationPage 11 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1indicating a score equivalent to the twelfth grade of high school]; and2(c)[(d)] Have submitted the completed application along with the required3license fee as set forth in administrative regulation.4 (2) Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, the board may refuse to grant a5license or permit to any applicant who fails to comply with the provisions of this6chapter or any administrative regulations promulgated by the board.7 (3) The board shall issue a cosmetologist license to any person who:8(a) Has official certification from the state board or agency that certifies9cosmetology schools that the applicant has satisfactorily completed[graduated10from a licensed school of cosmetology requiring] one thousand five hundred11(1,500) hours within five (5) years of enrolling within the school; and12(b) Has satisfactorily passed an examination prescribed by the board to determine13fitness to practice cosmetology.14 (4) The board shall issue an esthetician license to any person who:15(a) Has official certification from the state board or agency that certifies16cosmetology schools that the applicant has satisfactorily completed seven17hundred fifty (750) hours of instruction in a licensed school within five (5)18years of enrolling within the school[approved by the board]; and19(b) Has satisfactorily passed[received a satisfactory grade on] an examination20prescribed by the board to determine fitness to practice as an esthetician.21 (5) The board shall issue a license to act as a nail technician to any person who:22(a) Has official certification from the state board or agency that certifies23cosmetology schools that the applicant has completed satisfactorily a nail24technician course of study of four hundred fifty (450) hours in a licensed25school of cosmetology within five (5) years of enrolling within the26school[submitting an application for licensure]; and27(b) Has satisfactorily passed an examination prescribed by the board to determinePage 12 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1fitness to practice as a nail technician.2 (6) The board shall issue a license to operate a fixed or mobile salon as follows:3(a) The board shall issue a license to operate a beauty salon to any licensed4cosmetologist. An owner who is not a licensed cosmetologist shall have a5licensed cosmetologist as manager of the beauty salon at all times. If the6owner, manager, or location of a beauty salon changes, the required form and7fee shall be submitted to the board;[.]8(b) The board shall issue a license to operate an esthetic salon to any licensed9esthetician. An owner who is not a licensed esthetician shall have a licensed10esthetician or cosmetologist as manager of the esthetic salon at all times. If the11owner, manager, or location of an esthetic salon changes, the required form12and fee shall be submitted to the board;[.]13(c) The board shall issue a license to operate a nail salon to any licensed nail14technician. An owner who is not a licensed nail technician shall have a15licensed nail technician or cosmetologist as manager of the nail salon at all16times. If the owner, manager, or location of a nail salon changes, the required17form and fee shall be submitted to the board; and18(d) The board shall issue a license to operate a limited facility to anyone with19an applicable license or permit prescribed by administrative regulation. An20owner who is not licensed or permitted shall have someone with an21applicable license or permit as manager of the limited facility at all times. If22the owner, manager, or location changes, the required form and fee shall be23submitted to the board.24 (7) The board shall issue an instructor training certificate to train to be an instructor in25cosmetology, esthetic practices, or nail technology to any person who:26(a) Has held a current cosmetologist, esthetician, or nail technician license for at27least one (1) year; andPage 13 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1(b) Has submitted an application that has been signed by the owners of the school2in which the applicant will study. The course of instruction shall be for a3period of seven hundred fifty (750) hours and not less than four and one-half4(4.5) months at one (1) school providing this instruction. The school owner5shall verify to the board the completion of seven hundred fifty (750) hours.6For out-of-state verification, an applicant shall provide official certification7from the board or agency that certifies schools in that other state of licensure8verifying the applicant has completed a course of instruction consisting of at9least seven hundred fifty (750) hours and not less than four and one-half (4.5)10months at one (1) school providing the instruction.11 (8) The board shall issue a license to teach cosmetology to any person who:12(a) Has held a current cosmetologist license and an instructor training certificate13for at least seven hundred fifty (750) hours[four and one-half (4.5) months];14and15(b) Has satisfactorily passed the examination for the teaching of cosmetology as16prescribed by the board.17 (9) The board shall issue a license to teach esthetic practices to any person who:18(a) Has held a current esthetician license and an instructor training certificate for19seven hundred fifty (750) hours[at least four and one-half (4.5) months];[20(b) Has completed fifty (50) hours in esthetics training within the last two (2)21years;] and22(b)[(c)] Has satisfactorily passed the examination for the teaching of esthetic23practices as prescribed by the board.24 (10) The board shall issue a license to teach nail technology to any person who:25(a) Has held a current nail technician license and an instructor training certificate26for at least seven hundred fifty (750) hours[four and one-half (4.5) months];[27(b) Has completed fifty (50) hours in nail technology training within the last twoPage 14 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1(2) years;] and2(b)[(c)] Has satisfactorily passed the examination for the teaching of nail3technology as prescribed by the board.4 (11) (a) If the requirements of KRS 317A.090 have been satisfied, the board shall5issue a license to operate a school of cosmetology or a school of esthetic6practices or a school of nail technology to any person who has as manager at7all times a person who is:81. Licensed as an instructor;92. Charged with the responsibility of ensuring that all applicable statutes10and administrative regulations are complied with; and113. Responsible for having a sufficient number of licensed instructors of12cosmetology or esthetic practices or nail technology to conduct the13school.14(b) Any student enrolling in the school shall pay the fee set forth in administrative15regulation to the board before enrollment in the school shall be allowed.16(c) The transfer of any license to operate a school of cosmetology or esthetic17practices or nail technology shall require the board's approval and shall18become effective upon submitting the required form and fee to the board.19 (12) (a) The board shall issue a license to provide shampoo and style services to any20person who:211. Has passed an examination prescribed by the board to determine fitness22to perform shampoo and style services;232. Has completed at least three hundred (300) hours of instruction from a24licensed school of cosmetology; and253. Has met any other reasonable criteria established in administrative26regulations promulgated by the board.27(b) The board shall issue a license to operate a limited facility[beauty salon] toPage 15 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1any person:21. Who is licensed to provide shampoo and style services or who employs3at least one (1) person licensed to provide shampoo and style services at4the limited facility[beauty salon]; and52. Whose limited[ beauty salon] facility complies with standards6established in administrative regulations promulgated by the board.7 (13) Licenses established under this chapter shall be valid for a period of time to be8established by the board through the promulgation of administrative regulations.9 (14) Licenses and permits issued by the board may be renewed beginning July 1 through10July 31 of each license period prescribed by administrative regulation11promulgated by the board[year].12(a) Any license shall automatically be renewed by the board:131. Upon submission and receipt of the application for renewal and the14required annual license fee; and152. If the application for renewal is otherwise in compliance with the16provisions of this chapter and the administrative regulations of the17board.18(b) Any license application electronically submitted or postmarked after July 3119shall be considered expired, and the appropriate restoration fee as required by20administrative regulation of the board shall apply.21 (15) The requirements for a new license for any person whose license has expired for a22period exceeding five (5) years shall be as follows:23(a) Cosmetologists shall retake and pass both the practical and theory24examination;25(b) Estheticians shall retake and pass both the practical and theory examination;26(c) Instructors of cosmetology or esthetic practices shall retake and pass both the27practical and theory examination;Page 16 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1(d) Nail technicians shall retake and pass the practical and theory examination;2(e) Providers of shampoo and style services shall retake and pass both the3practical and theory examination; and4(f) The appropriate restoration fee as set forth in administrative regulation of the5board shall be required.6 (16) Guest artists or demonstrators appearing and demonstrating before persons other7than licensed cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, and providers of8shampoo and style services shall apply for a permit that shall be in effect for ten9(10) days. Guest artists performing before a nonprofit, recognized professional10cosmetologists', estheticians', or cosmetology school or shampoo and style services'11or nail technicians' group shall apply for a permit, but shall not be required to pay12the fee.13 (17) The board shall issue a permit for threading and may promulgate administrative14regulations that set out requirements for the practice of threading. Threading shall15be conducted in a licensed beauty salon or a facility with a permit to engage in16threading, and the board may promulgate administrative regulations for facilities17and the required sanitation standards. The permit shall be valid for the renewal18period prescribed by administrative regulation promulgated by the board[a period19of one (1) year].20 (18) The board shall issue a permit for eyelash artistry and may promulgate21administrative regulations that set out the requirements for the practice of eyelash22artistry. Eyelash artistry shall be conducted in a licensed beauty salon or a facility23with a permit to engage in eyelash artistry, and the board may promulgate24administrative regulations for facilities, education, and the required sanitation25standards. The permit shall be valid for the renewal period prescribed by26administrative regulation promulgated by the board[a period of one (1) year].27 (19) The board shall issue a permit for makeup artistry and may promulgatePage 17 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1administrative regulations that set out requirements for the practice of makeup2artistry and required sanitation standards. The permit shall be valid for the renewal3period to be prescribed by administrative regulation promulgated by the board[a4period of one (1) year].5 (20) (a) The board shall issue a permit for natural hair braiding and may6promulgate administrative regulations in accordance with KRS Chapter713A to set out sanitation standards for the practice of natural hair braiding8in licensed, non-residential facilities with other professionals licensed under9this chapter. The permit shall be valid for the renewal period prescribed by10administrative regulation promulgated by the board.11(b) For a person practicing natural hair braiding, this chapter shall not be12construed to require:131. A salon or other facility license, if working out of their home;142. A limited facility license, if only working with other natural hair15braiders; or163. Cosmetology instruction hours beyond a sanitation course.17 (21) (a) The board may issue a permit for temporary event services to a Kentucky-18licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, limited stylist, or nail technician and shall19promulgate administrative regulations that set out requirements for issuance20of a temporary event services permit including:211. Sanitation standards;222. Criteria for events that qualify;233. Application requirements and fees; and244. Any other requirements necessary to protect the public health and25safety.26(b) The temporary event services permit shall be valid only for the specific dates27and locations requested.Page 18 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1(c) A[No] person other than a Kentucky-licensed cosmetologist, esthetician,2limited stylist, or nail technician shall not perform services at a temporary3event services location, and a[no] licensee shall not perform services other4than those authorized by his or her respective license pursuant to KRS5317A.020.6(d) The Kentucky-licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, limited stylist, or nail7technician holding a temporary event services permit shall be liable for any8violation of KRS Chapter 317A or administrative regulations promulgated9under KRS Chapter 317A that occurs at the temporary event services location.10Section 6. KRS 317A.060 is amended to read as follows:11 (1) The board shall promulgate administrative regulations including but not limited to12administrative regulations that:13(a) Protect the health and safety of the public;14(b) Protect the public against incompetent or unethical practice,15misrepresentation, deceit, or fraud in the practice or teaching of beauty16culture;17(c) Set standards for the operation of the schools and all salons;18(d) Protect the students under this chapter;19(e) Set standards for mobile salons and for the location and housing of20fixed[beauty] salons or cosmetology schools in the state. This subsection does21not apply to the instructional programs in cosmetology in the state area22vocational and technical schools;23(f) Set standards for the quantity and quality of equipment, supplies, materials,24records, and furnishings required in beauty salons, esthetic salons, nail salons,25and cosmetology, esthetic practices,[ and] nail technology schools, and26limited facilities;27(g) Establish the qualifications of instructors of cosmetology, instructors ofPage 19 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1esthetic practices, instructors of nail technology, and apprentice teachers;2(h) Establish requirements for the hours and courses of instruction at cosmetology3schools and esthetic practices schools and nail technology schools;4(i) Establish requirements for the examinations of applicants for licenses;5(j) Establish the requirements for the proper education and training of students;6(k) Address the course and conduct of license and permit holders under this7chapter[school owners, instructors, instructor training certificate holders,8licensed cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, beauty salons, esthetic9salons, nail salons, cosmetology schools, schools of esthetic practices, and10schools of nail technology];[ and]11(l) Establish a code of professional conduct[ethics] for persons licensed and12permitted by the board; and13(m) Establish the inspection criteria and inspections for fixed and mobile14salons.15 (2) Administrative regulations pertaining to health and sanitation shall be approved by16the Cabinet for Health and Family Services before becoming effective.17 (3) Administrative regulations promulgated under this section shall not be unduly18burdensome and shall balance the needs of protecting the public against the19feasibility of the requirements imposed.20Section 7. KRS 317A.070 is amended to read as follows:21 (1) The board shall hold hearings upon the request of any licensee or applicant directly22affected by the board's decision to refuse to issue or renew a license or permit, or to23deny, suspend, probate, fine, or revoke a license or permit. A licensee or applicant24shall request a hearing within thirty (30) days of the board's notice that it seeks to25refuse to issue or renew a license or permit, or to deny, suspend, probate, fine, or26revoke a license or permit. The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with KRS27Chapter 13B.Page 20 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1 (2) The board shall hold hearings upon the request of an unlicensed party facing2penalties under this chapter. The unlicensed party shall request a hearing within3thirty (30) days of the board's notice that a penalty may be issued. The hearing4shall be conducted in accordance with KRS Chapter 13B.5 (3) Rulings of the board as a result of any hearing may be appealed to the Franklin6Circuit Court in accordance with KRS Chapter 13B.7Section 8. KRS 317A.090 is amended to read as follows:8 A[No] license shall not be issued or renewed by the board to any cosmetology school or9 school of esthetic practices or school of nail technology unless such school provides:10 (1) The name of the proposed school;11 (2) The ability to effectively and independently administer the school, reflecting12knowledge of the law in this chapter and administrative regulations prescribed by13the board[A statement that the proposed school is authorized to operate educational14programs beyond secondary education];15 (3) As a prerequisite of graduation, a prescribed course of instruction of not less than16one thousand five hundred (1,500) hours for a cosmetology school or seven17hundred fifty (750) hours for a school of esthetic practices, or four hundred fifty18(450) hours for a school of nail technology;19 (4) Courses of instruction in histology of the hair, skin, nails, muscles, and nerves of20the face and neck; elementary chemistry with emphasis on sterilization, diseases of21the skin, hair, and glands, and massaging and manipulating of the muscles of the22upper body; cutting, shaving, arranging, dressing, chemical treatment of the hair23and such other courses as may be prescribed by administrative regulation of the24board;25 (5) Facilities, equipment, materials, and qualified instructors and instructor training as26may be required by administrative regulations of the board adopted pursuant to this27chapter.[, but no] Cosmetology schools[school] or schools[school] of estheticPage 21 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1practices or schools[school] of nail technology shall follow the student-teacher2ratio listed in administrative regulations promulgated by the board[have fewer3than one (1) licensed instructor per twenty (20) students present for instruction];4 (6) A[No] cosmetology school or school of esthetic practices or school of nail5technology, after being licensed for the first time, shall not serve the public until6one hundred fifty (150) hours of instruction has been taught;[ and]7 (7) If a complaint or concern has been validated through an inspection,8investigation, or audit, the board may take immediate remedial measures to help9the school operate according to the requirements and standards prescribed by this10chapter or in the administrative regulations prescribed by the board in11accordance with KRS Chapter 13A.12 (8) In compliance with KRS 317A.070, the board may revoke or suspend any license13issued by it if, in the judgment of the board, the school is not following the14requirements as set out in this chapter or the school does not comply with the15administrative regulations promulgated by the board in order to regulate the16conduct of the school and in order to supervise the proper education of the students.17Section 9. KRS 317A.130 is amended to read as follows:18 (1) A[No] licensee shall not:19(a) Fail to follow sanitation standards prescribed by administrative regulations20promulgated by this agency or other agencies in accordance with the21Kentucky Revised Statutes[provide the head rest of each chair with a22relaundered towel or a sheet of clean paper for each person]; or23(b) [Fail to place around the patron's neck a strip of cotton, towel, or neck strip so24that the haircloth does not come in contact with the patron's skin;25(c) Use on one (1) patron a towel that has been used upon another patron, unless26the towel has been relaundered;27(d) Use on any patron any razor, scissors, tweezers, comb, bowl, recirculatingPage 22 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1pipes, rubber disc, or part of a vibrator or other similar equipment or2appliance that comes into contact with the head, face, hands, feet, or neck of a3patron, until the equipment or appliance has been sterilized in accordance with4methods of sterilization that are bacteriologically effective and approved by5the Cabinet for Health and Family Services; or6(e) ]Use on any patron a liquid nail enhancement product containing monomeric7methyl methacrylate, also known as dental acrylic monomer, for the purpose8of creating artificial nail enhancements in the practice of cosmetology and nail9technology.10 (2) This chapter shall not be construed to prohibit an instructor, student,11cosmetologist, or nail technician from using callus graters for callus removal,12and the board shall not promulgate any administrative regulation prohibiting the13use of callus graters for callus removal[No esthetician practicing under this14chapter shall perform any of the following unless practicing under the immediate15supervision of a licensed physician:16(a) Botox or collagen injections;17(b) Laser treatments;18(c) Electrolysis;19(d) Tattoo;20(e) Permanent makeup;21(f) Microblading; or22(g) Piercing].23Section 10. KRS 317A.140 is amended to read as follows:24 (1) The board may refuse to issue or renew a license or permit, or may suspend or25revoke a license or permit, impose probationary conditions upon, impose an26administrative fine, issue a written reprimand or admonishment, or take any27combination of these actions regarding proof of any applicant's, permitee's, orPage 23 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1licensee's:2(a) Conviction of a felony, if in accordance with KRS Chapter 335B;3(b) Gross malpractice or incompetence;4(c) Mental or physical health that would endanger public health or safety;5(d) False or deceptive practice or misrepresentation including advertising;6(e) Practicing in an unlicensed salon or in a salon knowing that the salon is not in7compliance with this chapter or the administrative regulations of the board8promulgated pursuant to this chapter;9(f) [Immoral conduct, ]Unprofessional conduct[, or a violation of the code of10ethics];11(g) Teaching in an unlicensed school or in a school knowing that the school is not12in compliance with this chapter or the administrative regulations of the board13promulgated pursuant to this chapter;14(h) Failure to comply with the administrative regulations of the board.15 (2) Payments in lieu of suspension collected by the board shall be deposited in the State16Treasury and credited to the general fund.17 (3) The board may require retesting of any licensee upon proper showing of gross18malpractice or incompetence on the part of the licensee.19Section 11. KRS 317A.145 is amended to read as follows:20 (1) The board shall receive complaints concerning any person licensed or permitted21under this chapter relating to the licensee's business or professional practices. The22board may investigate all complaints concerning any person licensed under the23provisions of this chapter or any person that is performing services regulated by24this chapter without a license or permit. The board may on its own volition initiate25such an investigation and shall promulgate administrative regulations necessary for26the administration of the provisions of this section.27 (2) If upon investigation there appears to be a violation of the provisions of thisPage 24 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GAUNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 885/GA1chapter, the board shall take such action as it deems necessary under the provisions2of KRS 317A.140.3 (3) For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter, officers, agents, and4inspectors of the board may enter upon premises of all facilities issued a permit or5license by the board, at all reasonable times and during periods when those6premises are otherwise open to the public, and make inspections to determine7compliance with this chapter and the administrative regulations promulgated by the8board, and inspect books, papers, or records pertaining to the licensed activity, a9copy of which may be obtained by the board officer, agent, or inspector.10Section 12. KRS 317A.990 is amended to read as follows:11 (1) Any licensee or permitee[person] who violates any provision of this chapter shall12be fined not less than fifty dollars ($50) nor more than one thousand five hundred13dollars ($1,500) per violation.14 (2) Any person who provides services regulated by this chapter without a license15shall be fined not less than fifty dollars ($50) nor more than one thousand five16hundred dollars ($1,500) per violation.17 (3) Any person who violates any administrative regulation lawfully promulgated by the18board under the authority contained in this chapter shall be fined not less than19twenty-five dollars ($25) nor more than seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) per20violation[.21 (3) Any person who violates KRS 317A.020 or 317A.155 shall be guilty of a Class B22misdemeanor].Page 25 of 25HB088510.100 - 2232 - XXXX 3/27/2026 11:00 AM GA
Create a new section of KRS Chapter 317A to prohibit a licensee from performing services that go beyond the stratum germinativum layer unless practicing under the immediate supervision of a licensed physician; prohibit a licensee from performing any service regulated by another agency without the appropriate licensing for that service; amend various sections of KRS Chapter 317A to define "fixed salon" and "mobile salon"; change "limited beauty salon" to "limited facility" throughout; require any person who attempts to practice cosmetology or shampoo styling without being licensed to pay an administrative penalty to the board in an amount not to exceed $1,500 for each offense; authorize the board to investigate any and all unlicensed activity of services licensed under KRS Chapter 317A; prohibit a licensee from holding clinics if the clinics are not sponsored by a beauty specialty group for a service that require a license or permit under KRS Chapter 317A; require any person who applies for an esthetician license to have completed 750 hours of instruction in a licensed school within 5 years of submitting an application for licensure; establish licensing for mobile salons and limited facilities; exclude completion of 50 hours of esthetics or nail technology training within the last 2 years from licensure requirements for teaching esthetic practices or nail technology; establish license and renewal periods by administrative regulations promulgated by the board; establish a permit for natural hair braiding; exempt a person practicing natural hair brading from being required to have a salon license if working out of their home, a limited facility license if only working with other natural hair braiders, or obtaining cosmetology instruction hours beyond a sanitation course; require the board to promulgate administrative regulations to set standards for mobile salons and limited facilities; establish a code of professional conduct for persons licensed and permitted by the board; establish the inspection criteria for fixed and mobile salons; require the board to hold hearings in accordance with KRS Chapter 13B upon the request of an unlicensed party facing penalties; require schools to follow the student-teacher ratio listed in administrative regulations; allow the board to take immediate remedial measures to help a school operate according to standards if a complaint or concern has been validated through an inspection; prohibit a licensee from failing to follow sanitation standards prescribed by administrative regulations; allow the board to investigate all complaints concerning any person that is performing regulated services without a license; establish a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $1,500 per violation for any person who provides regulated services without a license.
Sponsors
Rep. Deanna Frazier Gordon (R) sponsors HB 885 alone.
Committees
HB 885 went before 4 committees: Committee On Committees, Licensing, Occupations & Administrative Regulations, Rules and Committee on Committees.

History
HB 885 has taken 10 actions since Mar 4, 2026, the latest on Mar 27, 2026.
| Chamber | Action | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mar 27, 2026 | House | 3rd reading, passed 64-18 with Floor Amendment (1) | ||
Mar 27, 2026 | Senate | received in Senate | ||
Mar 27, 2026 | Senate | to Committee on Committees (S) | ||
Mar 20, 2026 | House | floor amendment (1) filed | ||
Mar 19, 2026 | House | posted for passage in the Regular Orders of the Day for Friday, March 20 2026 |
Votes
HB 885 went to 1 roll call in the House, the latest on Mar 27, 2026 at 64–18.
| Chamber | Question | Yea | Nay | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mar 27, 2026 | House | House: Veto Override RCS# 356 | 64 | 18 |
Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov · legiscan.com