Senate Approves Senator Browne's Tanning Salon Bill

Senate Bill 349 would require licensing, parental consent for minors

The Senate approved Senate Bill 349, legislation introduced by Senator Pat Browne (R-16), intended to improve safety at tanning salons and require parental consent for minors.

"Medical studies continue to show that early and excessive exposure to ultraviolent radiation, from the sun or artificial sources, greatly increases the likelihood of skin cancer in later years," Senator Browne said. "This legislation will provide greater assurance that consumers are protected and are making more informed decisions when choosing to use the services of a tanning facility."

Senator Browne's legislation would require tanning facilities to be licensed by the Department of Health. The Department may inspect the facility after the application is processed. The Department will randomly inspect licensed facilities on an annual basis.

"This legislation enacts common sense guidelines," Senator Browne continued. "It will require that these businesses operate under a licensing arrangement and that their management and staff are properly trained in the use of the equipment. It will ensure that patrons are advised of potential hazards and that minors have parental consent."

Specific provisions of the Indoor Tanning Regulation Act include:

Requires posting and notice of warnings regarding ultraviolet radiation, and requires each customer to receive a written warning statement that must be signed prior to the initial exposure.
Requires tanning beds to be certified under Federal regulation, tanning operators must instruct customers on the safety of the tanning device and report any injury to the Department of Health.
Requires minors 14 to 18 years of age to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Requires the parent to sign the warning statement. Persons under 14 must have written permission from a licensed physician.
Requires operators to complete a training program.

Senate Bill 349 now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Contact:

Lesley Darrin
(717) 787-1349