To the editor:

A couple of thoughts about Friday’s letter addressing Rep. Mike Amyx and a pending bill updating barber regulation:

First, the bill in question (HB2419) was introduced by the House Appropriations Committee, not by Rep. Amyx. He is not a member of the Appropriations Committee.

Second, how is it a bad thing for a professional with decades of practical experience to offer insight on the effective state regulation of a public service? I’d submit his familiarity with the issue is at least as valid as an unsurprisingly anti-regulation Charles Koch-funded study of the bill. It’s worth noting that a majority-Republican House committee, on which Amyx does serve as ranking Democratic member, has recommended passage of the great majority of the original bill’s provisions.

Lawrence has recognized Mike Amyx’s commitment to good, cost-effective, government at the city, county and state levels for decades. He deserves better than gratuitous accusations of self-interest.

Tom Gleason,

Lawrence