New York's Cosmetology Textured Hair Law — What It Requires and Why It Matters
On November 17, 2023, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed Senate Bill S6528A into law, requiring all cosmetology schools in New York State to include education and testing on all hair types and textures as a mandatory condition of student licensure. The law took effect in the spring of 2024, giving schools a 180-day window to update their curricula.
What the law specifically requires: The law mandates that education and testing for cosmetologists and natural hair stylists include instruction on providing services to individuals with all hair types and textures — including, but not limited to, various curl and wave patterns (covering types 3A through 4C), hair strand thicknesses, and volumes of hair. The New York State licensing examination must also be updated to include questions reflecting knowledge of textured hair care.
Why the law was needed: Prior to this legislation, cosmetology training in New York — and most of the United States — was built primarily around straight and wavy hair textures. According to data cited in the bill's legislative history, 86% of Black women reported difficulty finding consistent, quality hair care at salons, and 65% of hair stylists expressed a desire for more training in textured, coily, and kinky hair types. The natural hair industry is estimated to be worth $8.7 billion annually.
Who it was sponsored by: The bill was introduced by State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey (D-36) and carried through the Assembly by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages (D-22). It was championed by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) and its Texture Education Collective (TEC), founded by Aveda, DevaCurl, L'Oréal USA, and Neill. Louisiana passed similar legislation earlier in 2023, and advocates have begun discussions with approximately eight additional states.
What it does not cover: The law applies to new cosmetology students going forward — it does not retroactively require already-licensed stylists to receive additional training, though they are encouraged to do so. Cosmetology schools that fail to comply may face disciplinary action and fines from the New York Department of State.
The legal connection: New York's CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair), passed in 2019, prohibits race-based hair discrimination in employment and educational settings — including discrimination based on hair texture and protective styles such as braids, locs, twists, and bantu knots. Bill S6528A builds directly on the CROWN Act's framework by addressing the educational gap that enables discrimination to persist in professional salon settings.
If you have experienced workplace or professional discrimination related to your natural hair texture or protective hairstyle in New York, that may constitute a violation of the CROWN Act or Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Consulting an employment attorney is an important first step.
