License Mobility Moves Forward Interstate Compacts could expand hiring options for spas— but industry voices are needed
License Mobility Moves Forward Interstate Compacts could expand hiring options for spas— but industry voices are needed
PROFESSIONAL LICENSE MOBILITY is more than a policy discussion. For U. S. spas, it is a business issue tied directly to hiring, retention, scheduling flexibility and guest demand. Interstate compacts are designed to help address those challenges by creating pathways for licensed professionals to practice across participating states through a multistate license, while maintaining each state’ s authority to regulate the profession and protect the public.
Several compact efforts continue to move forward in cosmetology, esthetics and massage therapy. Each is at a different stage, but the shared goal is clear: Reduce unnecessary barriers to employment while supporting public protection and professional standards.
COSMETOLOGY COMPACT NEARS IMPLEMENTATION According to Leslie Roste, director of state relations and policy development for the Professional Beauty Association, the cosmetology compact is in the final stages of going live in member states. Current member states include Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia. Active legislation also remains in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Roste notes member states have begun testing the data system, which is generally the final step before a state goes live with issuance of the multistate license.
For spa owners and employers, Roste says these tools are“ keys to a larger hiring pool,” allowing employees to work in other locations without losing them, shift between locations during high and low seasons, and begin work more quickly instead of waiting through an often lengthy licensure process.
ESTHETICS COMPACT LOOKS TO 2027 The esthetics compact is earlier in the process. Alabama, Kansas and Virginia are current member states, and the compact needs four more states to become a standing commission.
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