Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB331

Introduced
2/28/25  
Refer
2/28/25  
Refer
3/16/26  
Report Pass
3/17/26  
Engrossed
3/23/26  
Refer
3/23/26  

Caption

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Cosmetology Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

Impact

The adoption of SB331 will significantly impact Pennsylvania's laws surrounding licensure for cosmetologists. Once implemented, the compact will standardize licensing procedures, allowing cosmetologists licensed in one member state to practice in others without undergoing additional licensing processes. This aims to provide increased professional opportunities while upholding regulatory standards to ensure public safety. Furthermore, the bill outlines provisions for the regulation of adverse actions against licensees, ensuring a coordinated approach to enforcement across interstate boundaries. Member states will have to comply with the compact’s rules while retaining some jurisdiction over local licensing requirements and disciplinary actions.

Summary

SB331 aims to authorize the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, allowing for multistate licensure for cosmetologists. This compact seeks to facilitate the practice of cosmetology across state lines while maintaining standards for public safety and professional competency. The legislation sets forth requirements for states to join, including regulations on mutual recognition of licensure and the establishment of a governing commission to oversee its implementation. By joining this compact, Pennsylvania aims to enhance the mobility and flexibility of its cosmetology workforce, addressing regional workforce shortages and empowering licensed professionals to operate across member states seamlessly.

Contention

While supporters argue that SB331 will streamline the licensing process and generate economic benefits by meeting the demand for cosmetology services, opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential dilution of state regulatory standards. There are fears that the compact could lead to inconsistencies in quality and safety standards across states, as member states may have varying training and competency requirements. Additionally, some critics might question the oversight provided by the new commission established under the compact and whether it will adequately protect consumers while promoting professional mobility.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB365

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Cosmetology Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

PA HB554

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

PA SB583

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

PA HB668

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

PA SB604

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

PA HB787

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Dental and Dental Hygiene Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

PA HB1127

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

PA HB1961

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the PA Licensure Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the PA Licensure Compact.

PA SB1051

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the PA Licensure Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the compact.

PA SB81

Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.

Similar Bills

HI SB1619

Relating To The Cosmetology Licensure Compact.

HI SB1619

Relating To The Cosmetology Licensure Compact.

IA SF551

A bill for an act relating to the practice of barbering and cosmetology arts and sciences, including schools of barbering and cosmetology arts and sciences and a combined course of study for the practice of esthetics and nail technology.(Formerly SF 316.)

TX HB705

Relating to the Cosmetology Licensure Compact; authorizing fees.

SC S0603

JR to Approve Regulation Doc. No. 5309

IA SF316

A bill for an act relating to the practice of barbering and cosmetology arts and sciences, including schools of barbering and cosmetology arts and sciences and a combined course of study for the practice of esthetics and nail technology.(See SF 551.)

IL HB3854

BARBER/COSMETOLOGY-EDUCATION

NJ S2808

Creates new level of barbering license and apprenticeships in barbering, and establishes limits to hours of instruction for certain barbering training.