Illinois law enlists hairstylists to help prevent domestic abuse

[TexasTowelie]

An Illinois law that took effect Sunday aims to take advantage of the trusted relationship between hairstylists and their clients to prevent domestic violence.

Stylists, barbers, cosmetologists, estheticians, hair braiders and nail technicians in Illinois will receive an hour of mandated abuse-prevention training as part of the licensing process. The law does not require them to report any violence, and it shelters them from any liability.

Instead, the training provides beauty professionals with information about local help and resources they can share with clients. The Illinois measure appears to be the first of its kind in the country, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Hairstylists are well situated to notice signs of abuse, said Vi Nelson, spokeswoman for the industry group Cosmetologists Chicago.

Read more: http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/illinois-law-enlists-hairstylists-to-prevent-domestic-abuse/

[Sherman A1]

1. This is a good thing I believe

any means of getting help to people that are in need should be a positive.