By Bob Katzen 

A bill before the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure would require all applicants for a new or renewal of a license to be a hairdresser, barber, cosmetologist, electrolysis or manicurist, to complete one hour of domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education as part of their educational requirements to be licensed in their field.

Supporters say customers often talk to their hairdressers and others in the beauty field about their problems including domestic violence and sexual assault. They argue that requiring training in these fields could help protect some victims and even save their lives.
   Opponents say this is more micromanaging and interference by the state.