During the global pandemic due to COVID-19, testing for NIC in order to obtain a license in cosmetology has been postponed until 2021. This is leaving graduates, future graduates, and cosmetologists to transfer their licenses from out of state and unfortunately deem them unable to practice cosmetology at this time without testing for their licensure.

Without being able to test for cosmetology licenses, these individuals are being stripped of their livelihoods after successfully completing and paying out of pocket for their studies while in cosmetology school. I believe they have worked too hard for this to be the only outcome regarding NIC licensure testing.

In addition to creating financial strain on these individuals and their families, this is only adding to South Carolina’s already declining economic status.

The statue reads that temporary permits to practice as a cosmetologist, esthetician, or nail technician may be issued in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board. But when asked about the potential temporary licensure, the board refused to issue any regulations to promulgate any type temporary licensing. This lack of response and action from the board is leaving far too many educated and hard working individuals out of work.

I ask you to stand in solidarity with myself and other beauty professionals in signing this petition to help these individuals to be granted temporary licenses in hopes that they can work in these already difficult times we are experiencing as a nation.