Panel backs bill to add trichology training into cosmetology and barber programs

The Regulated Industries Committee voted to report HB 684 out of committee after proponents described growing incidents of hair loss and scalp injury and urged mandatory trichology instruction in barbering and cosmetology programs.

Representative Taylor introduced the bill and called trichology the "hair science" that covers hair loss, scalp diseases and disorders. A licensed cosmetologist and trichologist who said she runs a school in Atlanta told the committee that the pandemic has increased hair‑loss complaints and that current beauty curricula leave students unprepared. "We have not modernized our schools... We have not applied this in our educational areas," she said, arguing for an introductory, mandatory course to protect consumers.

Supporters told members they are asking for 30 hours to be included in the curriculum but not to increase the total 1,500 hours required for graduation; instead, they seek to 'infuse' the trichology content into existing coursework. Members asked whether the proposal would raise program length or costs; proponents said it would not increase total required hours and could be delivered via existing instruction and online materials.

After discussion about funding for inspection capacity and clarity that the training is for identification rather than diagnosis, the committee moved, seconded, and carried a do‑pass motion on HB 684.

Next steps: HB 684 was reported out on voice vote; sponsors said the state board of cosmetology reviewed the curriculum and supported it.