Representative Laura Schmaltz brought House Bill 4911 to the House Regulatory Reform Committee in Lansing, asking the panel to amend the occupational code so licensed barbers may legally operate mobile barbershop vehicles outside a brick-and-mortar shop.

Michael Jordan, owner of Mobile Barber Company, described a fully equipped trailer he built after barber school and the pandemic, saying the service serves veterans, seniors, autistic children and families experiencing homelessness. “My setup isn't just a business. It's accessibility, dignity, and innovation on wheels,” Jordan said.

Why it matters: current Michigan law allows cosmetologists to operate mobile salons but does not explicitly permit barbers the same scope. Sponsors said that creates a legal gray area that prevents barbers from hiring apprentices and serving customers consistently.

Committee discussion focused on scope and precedent. Representative Fairbairn asked whether other mobile barbers operate in Michigan; Jordan said he found three others historically but believes few remain active. Representative Regas, a cosmetologist by training, confirmed cosmetologists’ licenses already explicitly allow mobile operation and said the bill would align barber licensing with that standard. Representative Wozniak asked whether the bill creates a separate mobile license; Schmaltz said it would expand barbers’ existing license scope rather than create a new credential.

Supporters described typical pricing and business models during questioning. Jordan said a standard haircut is $50, with higher fees for travel and on‑site events; long-distance calls command higher rates.

No formal committee vote on the bill was recorded in the transcript. Committee members did not indicate an objection to further consideration; several legislators asked for follow-up detail about whether multiple mobile units could operate under one license and how apprenticeship rules would apply.

The bill’s proponents offered to provide additional information about licensing mechanics and the presence of other mobile operators in Michigan to committee offices for follow-up.