The State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling has proposed some new legislation on professional hair braiding.

The proposed law would create a limited license to perform hair braiding services in New Jersey. Hair braiding shops would also require a license to offer the service.

The limited license for hair braiders requires 40 or 50 hours of training, depending on whether the applicant has three years of hair braiding experience at the time of application.

Currently, it takes 1,200 hours of training to obtain a full cosmetology license.

State officials say that hair braiders and their patrons primarily include the African American community and those of African or Caribbean descent.

“The Legislature and Board seek to remove certain barriers to economic opportunity for individuals who might pursue work as hair braiders, while maintaining consumer protections for their patrons,” officials said in a statement.

More information about the legislation can be viewed on the Division of Consumer Affairs’ website.