Ohio House Bill 377 eases laser hair removal delegation rules

Ohio House Bill 377 will modify physician delegation and supervision standards for light-based hair removal devices starting August 25, 2026, giving Ohio medical spas significantly more operational flexibility. Under the new law, physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, and physician assistants can delegate the use of hair removal lasers operating between 180 and 1,064 nanometers to a broader range of staff. The maximum number of individuals a physician can supervise at one time will increase from two to five. Furthermore, the bill eliminates the rigid requirement for a prior physician evaluation before and after a patient's first treatment, unless the task is delegated to a certified laser hair removal professional who has completed 750 hours of training. For registered nurses, physicians can provide off-site supervision if the nurse completes an approved 40-hour training course. This legislative shift, which updates standards previously adjusted on April 11, 2021, aligns Ohio law with the practicalities of modern aesthetic practices. If you operate in Ohio, you should begin reviewing your delegation protocols and staff training records now to ensure a seamless transition before the rules officially change.

Source: Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, https://www.dinsmore.com/publications/effective-august-25-2026-ohio-house-bill-377-will-revise-the-law-governing-light-based-medical-devices-used-for-hair-removal/