Barber school bill clears first round

A bill that would update Nebraska barber laws to align with federal financial aid requirements advanced to select file March 18.

LB842, introduced by Malcolm Sen. Ken Haar, would require a high school diploma or GED prior to admittance to a barber school if the school operates as a postsecondary barber college. Haar said the change is required by the U.S. Department of Education.

“This is important because it enables barber students to be eligible for financial aid through federal programs,” he said.

The bill also would allow the state barber board to continue to authorize licensed barber schools at the non-postsecondary level.

LB842 advanced to select file on a 35-0 vote.