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7/7/2025
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Law now allows home hair care services for disabled individuals
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STATE HOUSE — Legislation introduced by Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone III and Rep. Mary Ann Shallcross Smith that allows individuals with special needs or sensory-related disorders or differences to receive hair care services within their home has been signed into law.
“Not everyone is able to go to, or is comfortable with, a traditional salon or barber setting to get their haircut, but they also deserve the dignity and pride that comes with a new haircut or styling. This is a compassionate piece of legislation that acknowledges the needs of individuals with special needs and that they too deserve to look and feel their best,” said Leader Ciccone (D-Dist. 7, Providence, Johnston).
“There is a significant need for these services in the home not only for elderly, disabled and homebound Rhode Islanders, but for those who have sensory processing issues,” said Representative Shallcross Smith (D-Dist. 46, Lincoln, Pawtucket). “A simple haircut can be a traumatic and daunting experience for many neurodiverse adults and children. This bill would provide a good legislative framework to serve a growing population of those who deserve the dignity, safety and environmental comfort that can only be found in their own homes.”
The bill (2025-S 0381A, 2025-H 5833A) updates current law by adding to the types of individuals who can receive services outside of a traditional salon setting by licensed hairdressers. Individuals with special needs or sensory-related disorders or differences, in addition to homebound individuals, would now be eligible for home hair care visits. A licensed health care professional must verify that the home service is appropriate for the individual's specific needs.
For more information, contact:
Tristan Grau, Publicist
State House Room B20
Providence, RI 02903
401.222.4935
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