A new law in New York state requires trainee hairdressers to be taught how to work with all hair types, from the tightest curls to the straightest, as part of their cosmetology qualifications. Sponsored by assembly member Michaelle Solages and signed by governor Kathy Hochul in 2023, the measure aims to stop clients being turned away or given poor service because of their hair texture, and came into effect on 1 September.

Cosmetology and natural hair styling courses must now cover hair and scalp properties, plus care and styling techniques for textured hair, with students tested on this in their state licensing exams. The required number of training hours will stay the same, and schools were given three years to adapt. New Jersey passed comparable legislation in January, also adding curly hair to licensing exams and requiring schools to provide suitable training tools.