Support for tanning prosecutions

By Bryan P. Sears
Posted: November 25, 2009

Nearly 90 percent of Americans believe the government should restrict teens younger than 18 from using tanning beds and prosecute businesses that allow them to do so, according to a New Jersey-based public opinion research group.

HCD Research conducted a study of 332 viewers who watched a news clip about tanning laws in Europe.  The study required participants to register their immediate opinions on the subject by moving a mouse back and forth on a scale while watching the video.

The video and the results can be seen here.

Two weeks ago, the Baltimore County Council defeated a bill sponsored by Councilman Vince Gardina that would have prohibited minors from using tanning beds. Teens and the tanning salons could have been subject to criminal penalties, including a fine and jail time.

Howard County approved new health regulations that impose similar restrictions as well as fees for newly required tanning salon licenses. That law will not be enforced until next year.

Bruce Bereano, a lobbyist representing the state Indoor Tanning Association, said his group plans a legal challenge of the new regulations. He predicted the suit would be filed by Thanksgiving or shortly thereafter and called it a “holiday gift to the (county) council.”

Comment on this entry • View 1 response

user stevetowson says...

NANNYSTATERS! Raise your kids well, educate them properly, pay close attention to them, and stop expecting the government to do it all for you.

Posted 5:00 PM, 11.25.09

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