In recent years, most employers have relaxed their appearance standards as society's values have changed. However, extreme appearance can still be a barrier to employment in some occupations. Since employer standards of appearance vary according to occupation and labor market, each determination must be based on local labor market information developed for the specific area that constitutes the claimant's labor market. Voluntarily imposed appearance restrictions should be viewed in the same manner as other noncompelling restrictions. If the claimant voluntarily presents a personal appearance that is unacceptable to a significant number of employers, an availability issue exists that requires resolution.
Many occupations require some type of government requirement.
This requirement may be a license, permit, security clearance, or any other legal requirement. Refer to MI 50 for information on citizenship requirements. Certain occupations are subject to government regulation. Although many of these regulations place requirements on employers, some regulations place requirements on individuals who work in the occupations. To be considered available for work in one of these occupations, a claimant must conform to the government requirement.