OKLAHOMA CITY (OBV) – Oklahoma’s legislative leaders extended Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering’s operations in response to Gov. Kevin Stitt’s vetoing of a bill.
Senate Bill 676, written by Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, and Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, extends the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering’s sunset date by another year.
Stitt previously vetoed House Bill 1030, by Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus, which extended the sunset date to 2028, according to House officials.
“Legislators in both chambers united to protect the careers of 77,000 people and stand for the health of four million Oklahomans,” Hill said. “While there are many components of the Board that may be better suited for the Oklahoma Department of Health, any shifted responsibilities should come about through an intentional process, not a temper tantrum. Ultimately, I’m proud the Legislature was able to find a solution that allows more time for conversation around changes as we determine the best path forward.”
The Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering oversees the licenses of more than 77,000 barbers and cosmetologists in Oklahoma.
Stitt wrote in his veto message of HB 1030 that the board “should be restructured or consolidated.”
“Before granting another sunset extension, the Legislature should take a step back and ask: What does this Board really need to do, and who should be in charge of it? Until the Board becomes more transparent, responsive, and aligned with the needs of today’s workforce, its continued existence should not be taken for granted,” Stitt said in the veto message.
Stitt signed SB 676 into law.
It went effect immediately after signature.
