Board of Barber Examiners technical changes cleared for Ways and Means

Representative Sexton presented House File 35 28 as a technical bill intended to reduce barriers for people entering the barbering profession. Brent (executive director, Minnesota Board of Barber Examiners) said the bill lets the board offer more exam opportunities, removes a $500 retake-related schooling requirement, and adjusts fee structure without increasing cost to students overall.

Ms. Roberts (committee fiscal staff) verified a modest fiscal effect: an approximate $2,000 annual expense for the board partially offset by about $1,000 in revenue, resulting in a small net change to the general fund; the board indicated it can absorb the expense and is not seeking additional appropriation.

Members asked clarifying questions about who ultimately pays fees, the assumptions behind the fiscal note, and whether the bill should go to Ways and Means; Representative Sexton and staff confirmed the referral to Ways and Means and the author indicated willingness to bring a technical amendment if requested.

The committee referred HF 35 28 to the Ways and Means Committee for further consideration.