LANSING, MI — State Rep. Angela Rigas, a veteran cosmetologist and champion for Michigan’s small businesses, today condemned Democratic Rep. Phil Skaggs for being the sole vote against one bipartisan bill – HB 4692 – and joining one known socialist in voting no on HB 5207 that passed overwhelmingly on the Michigan House floor. These measures, designed to expand opportunities in cosmetology and barbering, received near – unanimous support from both parties, highlighting broad consensus on reducing barriers for aspiring professionals and educators in the beauty sector.

With her roots firmly planted in the industry, Rep. Rigas drew from personal experience to underscore the importance of these reforms. A graduate of cosmetology trade school, Rigas built and operated her own salon in West Michigan, where she spent years cutting, coloring, and styling hair while mentoring young stylists. Her advocacy extends to high-profile stands like the 2020 “Operation Haircut” protest, where she fought for the rights of salon owners and workers amid burdensome government restrictions.

“These bills are a commonsense win for Michiganders looking to build careers in cosmetology and barbering—lowering entry barriers, streamlining instructor pathways, and allowing schools to expand to train more students,” said Rep. Rigas. “It’s baffling and disappointing that Rep. Skaggs voted no, turning his back on hardworking stylists, barbers, and small business owners who deserve fewer regulations and more freedom to succeed. As someone who’s lived this industry day in and day out, I know how these changes will empower families and boost our economy. Skaggs’ lone opposition shows he’s out of touch with the real needs of Michigan workers, prioritizing red tape over real progress.”

HB 5207 streamlines barber and cosmetology instructor licensing by reducing training requirements to 600 hours and creating cross-training pathways with just 300 additional hours, addressing shortages and ensuring quality education in both fields. HB 4692 enables cosmetology schools to open secondary facilities under strict oversight, increasing capacity to serve more students without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

The bills, which enjoyed strong support from stakeholders like Douglas J Academy and the Michigan College of Beauty, now advance to the Senate. Rep. Rigas urged her colleagues there to prioritize these pro-worker reforms and reject the kind of isolated obstructionism displayed by Skaggs.

Rep. Rigas and her office can be reached at (517) 373-1403 or AngelaRigas@house.mi.gov.

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