Texas House Bill HB449

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 12/19/08
• Out of House Committee: 4/17/09
• Voted on by House: 4/27/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/11/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/21/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/25/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the regulation of laser hair removal facilities; providing penalties.

Impact

The legislation mandates that all individuals engaged in laser hair removal must obtain specific licenses and certifications. This includes a requirement for facilities to employ certified professionals and to maintain oversight from a consulting physician to establish proper operational protocols. The bill delineates the requisite qualifications for different levels of certification, from technicians in training to certified professionals, ensuring a standard of education and practical experience in the field. These regulations are expected to reduce instances of malpractice and enhance safety standards within the industry.

Summary

House Bill 449 establishes comprehensive regulations for laser hair removal facilities in Texas, amending the Health and Safety Code to incorporate a new subchapter specifically focused on the operations and safety protocols applicable to these facilities. The bill aims to ensure that operators of such facilities adhere to strict guidelines regarding the operation of laser or pulsed light devices, which are used for nonablative hair removal procedures. By formalizing these regulations, the bill seeks to enhance public safety and ensure that practitioners are adequately trained and certified prior to conducting hair removal procedures.

Contention

While the bill has overarching support for increasing regulation in health practices, opponents voice concerns regarding the potential burden on small businesses. Critics argue that the stringent compliance requirements may lead to increased operational costs, which could disproportionately affect smaller facilities compared to larger chains. Furthermore, there is apprehension that the increased regulations may limit access to laser hair removal services in more rural areas where fewer trained professionals are available, complicating access for those seeking these services.