Memphis Standard

Ahead of Valentine's Day, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators has introduced legislation aimed at helping cosmetologists and beauty professionals recognize and respond to domestic violence. The "Supporting the Abused by Learning Options to Navigate Survivor (SALONS) Stories Act" is sponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.).

The proposed bill seeks to incentivize domestic violence awareness training for those in the beauty industry, building on existing laws in states like Tennessee and Illinois. "Domestic violence is a tragic epidemic in the United States, impacting millions of women every year who often suffer in silence," said Senator Blackburn. She emphasized that beauty professionals are uniquely positioned to identify signs of abuse due to their close relationships with clients.

Senator Duckworth noted that victims often continue visiting salons, making beauty professionals potential first responders in recognizing abuse signs. She highlighted the importance of providing free training as a tool for intervention: "How they handle these critical moments could be life-saving."

In Maine, where domestic violence plays a role in about half of annual homicides, Senator Collins stressed the necessity of equipping cosmetologists with necessary tools: "Ending domestic violence requires an all hands on deck approach." Similarly, Senator Hirono pointed out that nearly 20% of Hawaii's residents have experienced domestic violence and called for more preventive measures.

Senator Boozman highlighted how trust built between cosmetologists and clients can help overcome barriers that prevent victims from seeking help. He stated that encouraging states to adopt recognition programs could lead victims closer to needed resources.

Emphasizing prevention strategies beyond traditional methods, Senator Klobuchar mentioned this legislation as part of efforts against human trafficking by enabling beauty professionals to intervene effectively.

Senator Shaheen concluded by stressing the importance of community members like beauty professionals having tools to support survivors: "Our bipartisan bill would equip community members like beauty professionals—who have close, personal relationships with many of their clients—with the tools to recognize signs of domestic violence."

The SALONS Stories Act would provide grants for states requiring free domestic violence awareness training for cosmetologists while maintaining state autonomy over standards. Endorsements include organizations such as the Professional Beauty Association and YWCA USA.