Legislation has been introduced that would allow military personnel and military dependents, licensed as cosmetologists in states other than Alabama, to continue practicing their skill and trade within the Yellowhammer State.

State Rep. Kenneth Paschal, a veteran, is sponsoring the bill.

“Passage of this legislation will ensure that our fighting men and women and dependents who worked as hair stylists and cosmetologists elsewhere can continue to access employment opportunities while stationed in Alabama,” Paschal said.

“As a U.S. Army career veteran, I understand the hardships and sacrifices that military dependents face, and they deserve to have their transition to a new posting made as easy and simple as possible.”

Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth lauded the bill.

“Alabama was among the first states in the nation to pass legislation ensuring occupational licensing reciprocity for military dependents, and we have expanded that effort to cover various boards, commissions, trades, and professions each year since,” Ainsworth said.

“By continuing this initiative, Rep. Paschal is helping Alabama remain the country’s friendliest state for active duty service members, military dependents, and veterans.”

Jeannie Price, executive director of the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, was also excited about the new legislation.

“We are excited about this opportunity for the cosmetology profession and our licensees,” she said. “This legislation will reduce the barriers of employment in our state, benefiting our military families as well as others relocating to our state.”

Alabama National Guard Adjutant General Sheryl Gordon said the legislation will benefit veterans.

“This bill makes it even easier for service members and their families to assimilate and do business in Alabama” Gordon said.

“The Alabama National Guard is always looking for pro-military legislation that will help our military families, and we hope the Alabama legislature quickly moves this bill forward.”

An identical bill has been enacted within Kentucky. Georgia, Texas, Nebraska, Arizona, and California are also considering the measure, which will soon be introduced in Delaware and Ohio, as well.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer Yellowhammer News.