Panel hears bill to add domestic-violence awareness training to barber and cosmetology licensure

House Economic Matters Committee members heard testimony in support of House Bill 1547, which would require barbers and cosmetologists to complete a one-hour domestic-violence awareness training as part of licensure requirements.

Supporters said salons and barbershops are places where victims sometimes disclose abuse and that a short, standardized training would help cosmetology professionals recognize warning signs and connect clients to resources. "HB 1547 ensures barbers and cosmetologists complete a 1 hour training program developed by the Maryland Department of Labor," a testifier said, adding the training would teach recognition, compassionate engagement and referrals.

Testimony emphasized the training is intended to be additive to existing protections and not punitive. A testifier who identified having personal experience with isolation and domestic violence urged a favorable report, saying the bill helps ensure victims "never be standing alone."

Committee members asked brief clarifying questions about the bill's scope and documentation; no formal vote was recorded at the hearing. The sponsor and proponents requested a favorable committee report so the legislation can proceed to later stages of consideration.