In 2023, obtaining a cosmetology license in Iowa required 2,100 training hours, significantly more than the requirements for an emergency medical technician (EMT) or a police officer. Jerry Akers and his daughter Sam Reges, lifelong entrepreneurs operating Great Clips salons across Iowa, discovered the extensive licensing regulations that posed significant barriers to entry for cosmetology professionals.
When Jerry Akers began managing his first Great Clips in 2006, he was unaware of how restrictive the licensing requirements were. At that time, obtaining a cosmetology license in Iowa required 2,100 training hours—600 more than the average requirement in other states. This burden forced many stylists to work long hours to pay off beauty school loans or quit their jobs due to financial and training demands. Strict attendance policies at beauty schools further disqualified many from continuing their education amid life challenges.
“I had to take a leave in January of 2015 to give birth. I was due with twins; however, one twin passed away during the delivery and I was dealing with postpartum depression,” recounted one cosmetology student. “I was told by the school that I had to return from my leave in six weeks or else I could kiss my career goodbye.”
Jerry's frustration with government-issued roadblocks stemmed from his humble beginnings as a farmhand. “We feel their pain. We [will] do everything we can to help,” he asserted.
Americans for Prosperity (AFP) played a pivotal role in addressing these concerns by advocating for HF 652—a bill aimed at reducing the number of required training hours and deregulating low-level services. AFP Iowa State Director Tyler Raygor identified Jerry as an effective advocate for this cause.
On an icy day in winter 2023, Tyler informed Jerry about an upcoming hearing on the bill. Despite being on his way out of town, Jerry turned around and drove seven hours back to testify alongside AFP.
Jerry and Sam arrived at the Iowa State Capitol armed with industry expertise but unfamiliar with legislative processes. With AFP's guidance, they delivered compelling testimony on the impact of regulations on aspiring cosmetologists and engaged legislators directly.
AFP utilized grassroots tactics and resources to connect Jerry and Sam with influential allies. Their efforts culminated in demonstrating to lawmakers the challenges faced by trainee stylists and transforming them into policy champions for HF 652. The bill passed in May 2023.
“An understanding of the industry combined with AFP’s legislative process and tactics [made] it a home run,” Tyler recalled.
The new law reduced required training hours from 2,100 to 1,550, merged barber and cosmetology boards, and deregulated several previously onerous services. This allowed aspiring cosmetologists greater flexibility to work while completing their training.
Thanks to AFP's advocacy efforts and support from Jerry and Sam, hair stylists in Iowa now face fewer hurdles obtaining licenses. However, AFP-Iowa continues its mission by championing legislation for apprenticeship programs for barbers and removing additional government barriers.
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