Amnesty offered to manicurists, hair designers

COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio is offering people who cut hair, trim nails and provide facials a chance to regain their license without taking a costly test.

The Ohio Board of Cosmetology says an amnesty program is aimed at more than 135,000 people who mistakenly let their licenses expire or took up another profession.

People who want to work again as cosmetologists, manicurists or skin-care specialists must pay back fees and complete continuing education courses.

Skipping the state cosmetology licensing exam saves more than $700 for preparation materials plus the cost of a stay in Columbus, the only place where the test is offered.

The state budget approved in June provided the amnesty for people who previously had no choice but to retake the exam.