New Hampshire to Ban Tanning for Minors

House votes to prohibit anyone under 18 from using tanning beds

The New Hampshire House has passed a bill banning anyone under 18 from using tanning beds.

Lawmakers approved the bill 199 to 162 on Wednesday, sending the bill to the Senate. Existing law requires parental permission for anyone under 18 to tan, but this new bill bans all use of tanning beds for minors. It doesn't prohibit doctors from prescribing the use of phototherapy devices.

Supporters of the bill point to the increased risk of being diagnosed with melanoma from tanning under the age of 35. They say requiring parental permission does not remove the risk and the state should play a role in preventing minors from engaging in dangerous behavior.

Opponents of the bill say it takes away parental rights and that the dangers of tanning beds are exaggerated.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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