HARRISBURG - State Rep. Zach Mako, R-Lehigh/Northampton, recently introduced legislation to address the lack of barber-teachers in Pennsylvania.

"Having access to a barber for a haircut is not something many people think about," Mako said. "However, Pennsylvania is currently experiencing a shortage of barber-teachers, which if not addressed, could force barber schools to close. While the lack of new barbers would not be seen immediately, it is important to address this issue before it becomes a problem."House Bill 1123 amends current law to allow licensed barbers who have three years of experience, or licensed manager-barbers with one year of experience as of Jan. 1, 2017, to opt to become licensed as a barber-teacher without examination. All applicants must have no disciplinary action on their records and pay a fee.The bill is expected to be referred to the House Professional Licensure Committee.