New York may retire formal prohibition on Sunday haircuts

A ban on barbers working Sundays in New York may soon be coming to an end.

Legislation eliminating a section of law prohibiting “shaving, hair cutting or other work of a barber” on a Sunday was sent to Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Monday for his approval or veto. The repeal measure unanimously passed the state Legislature this year.

“This is an antiquated law which, while perhaps only loosely enforced, is no longer necessary,” reads the bill memorandum. “By lifting this blanket prohibition, establishments will have the option to open their doors for business on Sundays; that decision should rest with the owner, not this outdated law.”

The proposal was sponsored by Assemblyman D. Billy Jones, a North Country Democrat, and Sen. Joe Griffo, a central New York Republican.