What defines laws in the cosmetology context?

In the context of cosmetology, laws are defined as statutes written by federal and state legislatures. These laws are formal rules that are enacted to regulate the practice of cosmetology, ensure public safety, and set standards for professional conduct within the industry. They provide the legal framework within which cosmetologists operate, covering areas such as licensing requirements, sanitation practices, and safety protocols.

Understanding these laws is essential for practicing cosmetologists, as they dictate what is permissible in the field and how professionals should conduct themselves and their businesses. This distinction between laws and other related concepts, such as policies set by individual salons or employee handbooks, is crucial. While those may provide guidelines for behavior or operations, they do not carry the same legal authority as statutes enacted by legislatures.