HELENA, Mont. (NMB) – After three failed attempts in previous sessions, a bill that would prevent minors from using tanning beds is moving through the Legislature.
Tim Pierce with the UM Legislative News Service reports, Senate Bill 21, sponsored by Senator Roger Webb from Billings, passed the Senate in February and had its first hearing in a House committee Friday.
Dr. Charlotte Kutsch with the Montana Academy of Dermatology, who was one of ten supporters of the bill during its hearing, says minors who use tanning beds have a greater chance of getting melanoma.
“And the science is clear. If you use indoor tanning beds, your risk of developing skin cancer significantly increases. No amount of UV exposure from tanning beds is safe. By definition a tan is evidence of skin damage.”
S.K. Rossi with the ACLU was one of three opponents to the bill. Rossi agrees tanning beds should have more regulations, but says penalizing tanning facilities with up to a $500 fine, as well as six months jail time is too severe.
“We just don’t think this should be in the criminal code. It seams a little harsh to put a business owner in jail for up to six month for – possibly accidentally – letting a minor use a tanning bed.”
The bill passed out of the Senate with a vote of 26 to 24.
