In the state of Maine, previous cosmetology laws allowed mobile spa technicians to work at hotels and business locations, but only service people in a private residence if they lived in that particular home.

Augusta, Maine-based nail tech Jody Newman, owner of the mobile spa business I Do Spas, met with her district representative to talk about introducing new legislation that would change the law for working in residences. “We had a problem doing spa parties in the home for more than the person that resides in the home,” she says. She and her representative testified before a legislative committee, with the Board of Cosmetology opposing their proposal. When granted another hearing, Newman was able to gather spa therapists to testify for the bill. They talked about the difficulty of getting a job in the beauty industry in Maine, painting the legislation as a solution that would “open up new doors for employment,” says Newman.

During that hearing in March 2009, the committee passed the bill with the condition that a permit be issued. The Board of Cosmetology is working on writing the agreement and permit guidelines, expected to be completed in the fall. According to Newman, it will keep track of where technicians are and what services they are performing.

While the Board works out the specifics, Newman is able to work as many parties as she wants. She and her technicians drive the mobile spa with equipment and spa accessories to private parties and events around the Augusta area. Service requests are up this year, with the company averaging between two and four parties per month.

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