Bill would create in-home barber permit

Licensed barbers would be allowed to offer in-home services under a bill discussed by the Health and Human Services Committee Jan. 23.

LB755, introduced by Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue, would require barbers working at a client’s home to obtain a permit from the state Board of Barber Examiners. The bill also would allow nail technicians to offer in-home services. A permit fee has not yet been proposed.

LB755 also would expand the definition of who qualifies for home services to include people with persistent physical and mental disabilities.

“A home barber permit applies to consumers that are immobilized and cannot leave their home,” Blood said.

Blood said Nebraska’s aging population will increase demand for in-home services. The new permit also would give a break to caregivers who may be homebound along with their loved ones, she said.

Ken Allen, director of the Nebraska Board of Barber Examiners, testified in favor of LB755. Under current law, it is illegal for a barber to provide services at an unlicensed residence, he said.

“The biggest part of this bill is legalizing a licensed barber to go into a home and perform these kinds of services,” Allen said.

He said equipment and chemicals used during in-home visits would be inspected regularly.

No one spoke in opposition to LB755 and the committee took no immediate action.