Sen. Paul Scott, R-Duncan, is the author of Senate Bill 101 to update Oklahoma’s barbering and massage therapist licensing rules.

“We have individuals who have diplomas for completing competent training in another state or country and are not allowed to qualify for a license, take examination, or work in Oklahoma due to our current licensing requirements and rules,” Scott said. “The licensing requirements for basic barbering need to be addressed.”

SB101 pertains to individuals who are trained and capable of performing barbering skills. They are educated on the safety and health codes for their field of expertise.

SB101 also gives an opportunity for those persons who were trained in massage therapy prior to 2016, when the licensing law was enacted, to have time to obtain their license and continue working in their field.

This opportunity to apply for licensure applies only before 2021.  This bill would allow those individuals who have received their training in the years prior to 2016, but who are unable to qualify for a license under the current requirements, to be grandfathered in, receive their license and continue to work in their field of their expertise.

It does not change anything in current law for Oklahoma state schools or their graduation requirements, and it does not affect individuals graduating after August 26, 2016.

“It is not my intent to change curriculum or hours for graduation from any Oklahoma school or make any change that might harm anyone in the barbering or massage professions,” Scott said. “I believe there is a need to ease some restrictions on licensing to allow citizens who were working in these occupations prior to the licensing requirement to go back to work in their desired occupations. It was the legislature that enacted the licensing laws and now I realize the impact some of these laws have on individuals who are actually trying to earn a living in these occupations.  I want people to continue in their desired occupation without having to completely start over.”