Texas barber schools implement new human trafficking sign requirement in five languages

The Texas Barber and Cosmetology Summit held on November 14, 2022, introduced significant updates affecting barbers, barber schools, and shops across the state. One of the most notable changes is the requirement to post human trafficking awareness signs in five languages, effective January 1, 2023. This initiative aims to enhance awareness and prevention efforts within the community. A printable PDF of the sign is available on the Texas government website, and it can be displayed in black and white.

Additionally, the meeting addressed changes to instructor licensing. As of September 1, 2022, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has replaced the instructor license with an underlying license for individuals who obtained their initial licenses through TDLR education. This means that those who previously held an operator instructor license will now receive an operator license without the instructor designation.

For those who had allowed their licenses to expire, the old license number will be reinstated, while new applicants will receive a different license number. Importantly, individuals will not lose the hours they accumulated as instructors, as TDLR will retain this information in their database. License verification and certified transcripts can be requested to confirm previous instructor status and course details.

These updates reflect ongoing efforts to improve regulatory practices and enhance safety and education standards within the barbering and cosmetology industry in Texas.