A trip to the nail salon is a ritual for many people.
Bianca Santos has been getting her nails done for years.
“I go every two weeks. It’s something I’ve been doing forever-- my treat,” Santos said.
Beginning in January 2018 in Hartford, there will be new licensing requirements for nail salons like this, aiming to better protect clients and employees from the strong and potent chemicals used. Proper ventilation systems would be a must. The city council voted 7 to 1 in favor of the new rules Monday night.
"I’m surprised it took this long for it to even pass," Santos said. "As far as nail salons, hair salons, I think it’s a great thing."
With the change, barbershops, hair salons and soon nail salons would all be charged a fee of between $150 to $200 per year for that new licensing. The city’s health department would oversee enforcement.
"I think it will be better for everyone’s health: The customers and the people who are working to help us do our nails," Kamilah Jarvis, of Hartford, said. "I think it’s a good idea."
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Hartford City Councilman Larry Deutsch, who spearheaded the changes, said this will bring nail salons under the same kind of regulation that hair styling businesses are already dealing with. Deutsch said businesses will be able to appeal if they are denied a license or fined.
Though some Hartford nail salon owners are not happy about paying a new fee, customers think it could be worth it.
"Just relaxing for like half an hour. I think it’s great. You should treat yourself," Santos said. "I think every girl should do it."
Businesses must obtain their new licenses by January of next year. The city’s health department is already getting the word out about the changes.
