08-20068-10

SUMMARY OF: A Sunset Review on the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (DCCED), Board of Barbers and Hairdressers (BBH), September 30, 2010

Purpose of the Report

In accordance with Title 24 and Title 44 of the Alaska Statutes (sunset legislation), we have reviewed the activities of BBH to determine if there is a demonstrated public need for its continued existence and if it has been operating in an efficient and effective manner. As required by AS 44.66.050(a), this report shall be considered by the committee of reference during the legislative oversight process in determining whether BBH should be reestablished. Currently, under AS 08.03.010(c)(4), the board will terminate on June 30, 2011, and will have one year from that date to conclude its administrative operations.

Report Conclusions

BBH should continue to regulate barbers, hairdressers, estheticians, manicurists, tattooists/permanent cosmetic colorists, and body piercers. The board is serving the public interest by promoting the competence and integrity of those who provide services to the public under these professions. We recommend the legislature extend the board’s termination date to June 30, 2019.

DCCED, Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing’s investigation unit did not address all investigations in a timely manner.

The current public board member is a licensed practitioner and therefore does not meet the statutory requirements.

Findings and Recommendations

1. The division’s chief investigator should take steps to ensure complaints and cases are investigated timely.

2. The current public board member should either surrender her license or be removed from the public board member position.