OK: veto of bill to continue Board of Cosmetology
Governor Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma recently vetoed House Bill 1030, legislation that would have extended the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering's operations until 2028. In his veto message, Governor Stitt cited concerns about the board's transparency, responsiveness, and alignment with the needs of the modern workforce, suggesting that its continued existence should not be assumed without reforms. In response, cosmetologists and barbers gathered at the state Capitol to urge lawmakers to override the veto, emphasizing the board's role in ensuring public health and safety through professional licensing and oversight. While some officials indicated that, absent the board, licensing responsibilities might shift to the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), the Attorney General's office expressed uncertainty about OMES's capacity to handle such functions. The legislature has until the end of the month to convene and potentially override the veto, which would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers.