Some counties have forced shop closure, but regulations prevent work outdoors
Hairstylists and barbers around the Golden State are asking Gov. Gavin Newsom to change a state regulation that prohibits them from being able to work outdoors.
Last week, Newsom signed an order that closed indoor services across a number of industries —including salon and barbershop services—in 30 hard-hit counties on the governor’s watch list, affecting 80 percent of Californians and seven out of the nine Bay Area counties.
The order specified that indoor services for these businesses had to close, leaving the door open for outdoor services to continue.
But hairstylists and barbers are subject to section 7317 of the Business and Professions Code, which requires “all barbering, cosmetology and electology services be performed in a licensed establishment,” according to the California State Board of Barbering & Cosmetology.
“Establishments that are within the specified counties must close immediately and not offer any services (including any outdoor services).” clarified a further statement.
Now, the fight to change section 7317 of the code is being led by Assemblymember Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) and Fred Jones, legal counsel for the Professional Beauty Federation of California, which represents 3,000 dues-paying members.
“If you can waive rule after rule after rule for taking booze outside, you can let these people take their business outside,” said Patterson, who held a virtual press conference with Jones and salon owners to discuss the letter. Patterson’s comment refers to the amendment of laws in not only California, but several other states, to loosen regulations of ‘takeout” alcoholic beverages to help bars and restaurants stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic.
California Department of Consumer Affairs spokesperson Cheri Gyuro said that the Board of Barbering & Cosmetology “understands the effect shutdowns have on businesses and is sensitive to that.”
“As it stands at this moment, under current laws and regulations, the services cannot be performed outside. However, we are looking deeply into this issue and we’re exploring options,” Gyuro said.
SOURCES: East Bay Times, OC Register
