As we inch closer to winter, some will choose tanning beds to keep that sun kissed tan. But in Howard County, if you are under 18, forget about it. Officials there have passed a ban that prohibits minors from using indoor tanning beds. It’s the first such ban in the nation.
The new law is designed to protect kids from getting skin cancer. Some studies have shown tanning beds can cause melanoma. The County Board of Health voted on the issue Tuesday night, it passed unanimously. About 60 people showed up for the public hearing, many of them supporting the ban.
Miss Maryland 2006 Brittany Lietz says she got melanoma after using tanning beds frequently. During the hearing, supporters said the current law, which requires parental permission for minors to tan, is not strong enough. Opponents argued the board was overstepping its authority.
Doctors disagree. Peter Beilenson, the Howard County Health Officer says, "People under the age of 35 who are exposed to indoor tanning have a 75% increased risk of skin cancer and the younger you are exposed to indoor tanning the greater your risk of potentially fatal melanoma."
Tanning salons that violate the ban could be taken to court. The ban takes effect Thursday. Baltimore County is considering a similar ban. The council will vote on the measure next week.
