MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A law requiring barbers and cosmetologists to go through mandatory training in order to keep an active license to work went into effect Thursday.

The Shear Haven Domestic Violence Training became Tennessee state law in 2021, and Wednesday was the deadline for the training to be complete.

Useful information Memphis barber Louis Germain said he learned after taking the Shear Haven Domestic Violence Training.

The training mandatory for all barbers and cosmetologists to complete to keep their licenses valid in 2026.

Germain said he sees this as a great opportunity to help domestic violence victims out of violent relationships.

The mandatory training administered through the Young Women’s Christian Association offers knowledge and resources on how to recognize the signs of domestic violence.

Also educating on how to navigate conversation with clients who may be in danger.

“So sometimes people book them appointment, and they would just be by yourself and they’ll, you know, they’ll talk to me and, you know, we will go over different life experiences together and hopefully we make it, you know, make each other better and come out to this thing,” Germain said.

Germain said he’s thankful the training also thinks about men, who he feels often get overlooked as victims of domestic violence.

“So, you know, a lot of people look at me as they family and I look at them and they’re way too cool. I kind of appreciate the business and the longevity that they’ve been coming. So definitely outside of the barbershop,” Germain said.