How IBCSA Helped Modernize and Protect Iowa’s Barbering and Cosmetology Industry
The Iowa Barber and Cosmetology School Association (IBCSA) is proud to reflect on the progress our industry has achieved over the past five years. What began as proposals to reduce training hours and eliminate licensure ultimately led to a more constructive outcome—modernizing Iowa’s barbering and cosmetology code, which had gone nearly a century without change. The sweeping reforms enacted during the 2023 and 2025 legislative sessions streamlined outdated processes, cut unnecessary red tape, and brought Iowa’s standards in line with today’s industry and workforce needs—all while preserving the integrity and professionalism of our field.
Our Role in Driving Change
Over the past five years, IBCSA has led the charge in working with legislators, regulators, and industry partners to protect and strengthen Iowa’s barbering and cosmetology industry. Our focus has always been on safeguarding the future for students entering the field and protecting licensure for today’s licensed professionals, while also ensuring the viability of our schools that prepare them for success. Some of the most impactful updates include:
- Merging Oversight Boards – Bringing the barber and cosmetology boards under one structure streamlined regulation while preserving strong oversight.
- Updating Training Requirements – Changing the hours required for licensure brought Iowa in line with national standards, ensuring students are workforce-ready without compromising quality.
- Expanding Student Options – Schools gained flexibility in program design, offering students more pathways to training and professional growth.
- Introducing Mobile Services – The new law allows professionals to provide barbering and cosmetology services outside of traditional salons, meeting clients where they are and opening new markets.
- Expanding Access for Newcomers – More accessible pathways now exist to introduce individuals to the profession and welcome new talent into the industry.
Each of these changes ensures Iowa schools remain responsive to industry dynamics while continuing to produce highly trained, licensed professionals.
Our Ongoing Commitment
While IBCSA is proud of these achievements, our work doesn’t end here. As both educational institutions and local businesses, our schools are major contributors to Iowa’s economy and workforce. We employ Iowans, train future salon professionals, and provide opportunities for upward mobility.
That’s why we continue to engage in policy discussions at every level of government. Looking ahead, we are committed to working with everyone in the industry to engage the Iowa Legislature on issues that matter deeply to industry professionals, students and our schools, including:
- Licensing requirements that balance efficiency with strong professional standards.
- Policies that uphold industry integrity and protect the health and safety of Iowans.
- Financial aid programs to support access to education and training.
Looking Forward
Over the past several years IBCSA has laid a strong foundation for the future of barbering and cosmetology in Iowa. Our advocacy efforts in the legislature have set the stage for a stronger, more unified industry—professionals working alongside schools to support current and future students, a growing presence at the Statehouse, stronger relationships with elected officials, and a positive collaboration between barbering and cosmetology professionals.
IBCSA is grateful to the many industry stakeholders, professionals, establishments, and associations whose partnership made these advocacy successes possible, all while protecting the integrity of the profession. Together, we look forward to continuing to build a thriving industry that prepares students for success, strengthens our communities, and upholds the high standards for which Iowa is known.
Threase A. Harms
President/CEO Advocacy Strategies, LLC
August 2025