SALONS Stories Act

This proposal would boost federal anti–domestic violence grants for states that require cosmetologists and barbers to take free training on how to spot warning signs, respond safely, and connect clients to help. The training must be provided by a nonprofit organization and cost the worker nothing.

States that pass such a law could get up to a 10% increase on their usual grant amount, for one year at a time, with a maximum of three years total. Congress authorizes $5 million per year from 2026 through 2032 to fund these increases. The policy applies to all states, plus Washington, DC, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories.

• Who is affected: state governments; people seeking licenses as cosmetologists or barbers; and clients who may need help with domestic violence.
• What changes: states that require this training can apply for a grant “bonus” of up to 10% of the average of their three most recent awards; each bonus lasts one year and can be renewed, up to three years total.
• When: funding is authorized for fiscal years 2026–2032.