We are licensed barbers, cosmetologists, and salon professionals in the state of New Mexico, and we are demanding clarity, fairness, and transparency from the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists and the Regulation and Licensing Department.

Recent enforcement practices—including surprise inspections, vague expectations, and the threat of immediate fines if a salon is closed—are unfair and unreasonable, especially for solo practitioners and appointment-only salons. Many of us are receiving contradictory or incomplete information about what is required to stay in compliance, and that confusion puts our licenses and livelihoods at risk.

We fully support upholding health and safety standards. However, the current inspection system lacks a consistent, documented protocol—especially for rural and appointment-based businesses. That’s not just a communication issue, it’s a systemic flaw that can lead to unjust penalties and stress for law-abiding professionals.

We are asking the Board and the Department to:

✅ Provide written, publicly accessible inspection protocols

✅ Respect the legality of appointment-only business models

✅ Eliminate automatic fines for being closed during unannounced inspections

✅ Ensure all rule changes go through a public hearing process with licensee participation

New Mexico’s hair, skin, and barbering professionals are working hard to serve our communities, uphold standards, and grow small businesses. We cannot do that under vague or punitive systems.

We deserve transparency, respect, and a fair process.