Supporting the Abused by Learning Options to Navigate Survivor Stories Act

S. 520, the Supporting the Abused by Learning Options to Navigate Survivor Stories Act (SALONS Stories Act), would amend federal crime control law to increase grants to states that combat domestic violence. Specifically, the bill would provide grant increases to states that implement domestic violence prevention training requirements for individuals seeking licensure as cosmetologists or barbers.

The bill recognizes that beauty professionals have unique opportunities to recognize signs of abuse in their clients. If enacted, states that establish laws requiring aspiring cosmetologists and barbers to complete domestic violence awareness training—provided at no cost by nonprofit anti-domestic violence organizations—would become eligible for increased federal grant funding. The training would focus on recognizing emotional and physical signs of abuse and how to respond appropriately to clients who may be experiencing domestic violence.

The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. If passed by both chambers and signed by the President, it would create a financial incentive for states to add domestic violence education to their cosmetology and barbering licensing requirements, potentially expanding access to domestic violence awareness and resources through an everyday professional service.