Argall Bill to Remove Employment Barriers for Cosmetologists Signed into Law

HARRISBURG - Legislation authored by Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) to streamline licensing for the cosmetology workforce has been signed into law by the governor, a major step in addressing Pennsylvania's ongoing workforce shortages.

"With salons and small businesses across Pennsylvania struggling to find enough licensed professionals, this new law will make it far easier for experienced cosmetologists to continue their careers," Argall said. "There is no reason why a cosmetologist in good standing should need to start from scratch just because they crossed a state border. This bipartisan law cuts through bureaucracy and supports employers who are desperate for qualified workers."

Act 43 of 2026 authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, an interstate agreement that makes it easier for licensed cosmetologists - who provide treatments for hair, skin and nails - to obtain a multistate license and work in participating states without unnecessary red tape. The bill also ensures cosmetology professionals in active-duty military families face no burdensome licensure requirements in compact states.

With the governor's signature, Pennsylvania becomes the 13th state to enter the compact, joining neighboring states Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland and Delaware.