The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has recently awarded a grant to the Council of State Governments (CSG) to create an Esthetics Compact, which is expected to significantly impact the industry. This compact will mirror the current Cosmetology Compact being introduced to state legislators across multiple states. Once enacted, it will allow licensed estheticians in compact states to relocate and work in another compact state without the need for re-licensing, offering a streamlined solution for professionals who frequently move, such as military families.
What is a Licensing Compact?
A licensing compact is an agreement between two or more states that allows professionals licensed in one compact state to practice in another compact state without needing to obtain a new license. It eliminates the time-consuming and costly process of reapplying for licensure in each state, which can be a significant burden for professionals who relocate frequently, such as military families or individuals pursuing career opportunities in different regions. The compact helps streamline licensure across states, ensuring that a professional’s credentials are recognized across state lines, if those states participate in the compact.
How Will This Help You?
For estheticians, the compact will offer several key advantages.
1. Ease of Mobility.
Licensed estheticians in compact states will be able to relocate to another compact state and begin working without delays caused by relicensing processes. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who move frequently, such as military spouses or those seeking new career opportunities.
2. Reduced Costs and Administrative Burdens.
The compact eliminates the need for professionals to reapply, submit documents, and pay additional licensing fees when moving to another state, saving time and money. Keep in mind there may be fees for participation, but this is to be determined.
3. Uniform Standards.
Participating states in a compact agree to uphold certain uniform standards for state licensure. With other professions this helps ensure consistency in the qualifications and training of professionals across state lines. In the case of esthetics these standards may not be identified, you will need to follow each state’s specific laws just like a driver’s license.
What the Compact Will Not Help
While the esthetics compact is a step in the right direction and provides a solution for mobility, it does not address the scope of practice issues currently affecting all licensed estheticians. We face varying regulations across states regarding what treatments and procedures they are allowed to perform and what are considered the practice of medicine. These inconsistencies create confusion for both professionals and consumers and may limit what an esthetician can do even if they hold a valid license in a compact state.
The statute for the esthetics compact is still being drafted, and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide input when it is released for public comment in January 2025. This will be a critical moment for professionals and organizations to address concerns and shape the final version of the compact. The final version will be ready to be presented to state legislatures by spring 2025.
Ultimately, the esthetics compact has the potential to ease mobility within the profession, but the broader issues of scope and regulation remain unresolved, posing ongoing challenges for the industry.