New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed legislation requiring Cosmetology State Board Licensing to include training and testing on all hair types and textures. This is a powerful move towards inclusivity and equity in the salon world where NY students will now grow into hair professionals trained to care for all hair types. 

This triumph is the culmination of tireless efforts by the Texture Education Collective (TEC) which was founded by Aveda; Aveda Arts & Scientces parent companay, Neill Corporation; DevaCurl and L'Oreal USA in conjunction with the Professional Beauty Association. 

Edwin Neill, President and CEO ofAveda Arts & Sciences Institutes, played a pivotal role in the progression of this legislation as he first championed the issue in Louisiana, helping it to become the first state in America to require this inclusive change. Neill notes, “When we made a change in our testing in Louisiana to include textured hair we did not realize that it would spark a national movement. New York’s new legislation is a step in the right direction to make sure hair stylists can accommodate clients of all hair types. Aveda Arts and Sciences Institutes have been teaching textured hair for years, and now all New York schools will as well.”

To sign a petitionadvocating for textured hair to be included in cosmetology testing standards, and for more information on how to become a supporting member of the TEC visit probeauty.org.