(TRENTON) – The Assembly Regulated Professions Committee on Wednesday approved legislation to expand a three-year pilot program to allow barbers from other states or countries that do not issue licenses to receive temporary permits to render services in New Jersey.
Under the existing three-year pilot program created in 2019 through legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Gary Schaer, eligible barbers who are licensed in another state or country can apply for a temporary permit valid for 120 days. The permit may be extended so long as they continue to meet certain requirements and that their application for a permanent license remains pending.
This bill (A-1256), also sponsored by Assemblyman Schaer, would expand eligibility for the pilot program to professional barbers from other states or countries which do not issue licenses. To qualify, barbers would need to have rendered professional barbering services in their state or country of origin prior to moving to New Jersey.
Assemblyman Schaer (D-Bergen, Passaic) released the following statement:
“By expediting the licensing process for these trained professionals, we allow them to participate in their local economies and provide for their families. Immigrant communities have been disproportionally affected by the pandemic. This legislation creates necessary opportunities as we work towards a complete economic recovery. Ensuring every resident can use their abilities is crucial for allowing struggling families and our economy to heal.
“The expansion of this pilot program will allow more barbering professionals to enter the workforce and serve communities throughout New Jersey.”