H 4978 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act to promote domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education and training in the field of cosmetology and barbering

H 4978 requires cosmetology and barbering schools to include at least one hour of domestic violence and sexual assault awareness training in their curricula for students. It mandates the state to provide a free online training program for licensed cosmetologists and barbers, and requires shops, schools, and mobile businesses to display a multilingual sign (in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and other languages as recommended) with a 24/7 hotline for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and forced labor. The bill also provides legal immunity to licensees, students, or employers who act in good faith regarding suspected domestic violence or sexual assault after completing the required training.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 28, 2026 Last action Jan 28, 2026
Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
2
Committee
2
Jan 28, 2026
Lower · Passed
Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
lower
Jan 28, 2026
Lower · Passed
Reported from the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure
lower
0 primary · 3 co-sponsors

Sponsors

No sponsor information available.