We have seen the Guidelines for Reopening Barbering and Cosmetology Salons in the state of GA. With this, a precedent has been set and we are all watching to see what happens.  

From reading these guidelines, we have concerns about the possible impacts some of these may have on our business and livelihood moving forward.  The main considerations are as follows:

1. Potential Requirements that have salons operating in ways that carry similar  expectations to those working as healthcare professionals. These requirements could demand the use of supplies(PPE) that are not available or are in short supply.  

2. The Liabilities we may assume working on and in close proximity with clients and customers.  Without any set precedents, we can not be assured liability coverage that would protect our assets from possible lawsuits resulting from hospitalizations costs and death. 

3. Severe Restrictions in the number of persons allowed in a salon.  Limiting how many clients/stylists we can have in the building, could fundamentally change our business model, devaluing our services and inhibiting us from being able to meet obligations such as payroll, rent, and utilities. 

As of last summer, our collective industry was worth $532 billion. From sole proprietors, independent contractors, sales, educators, and W-2 licensed employees. With understanding the impact we have on our economy, we ask for considerations for our industry that ensure it's stability and recovery. 

We are suggesting that we be protected by a mandate that allows us to receive funding and grants until it is deemed that we can resume business at 75% capacity.   This may have us being open in the later phases and we ask to be considered for grants and funding specific to our industry later on.  We ask that we wait be reopened until the regulations around safety and sanitation are more aligned with hairstylists and less with medical professionals.