Tanning Restrictions for Texas Teens

House bill calls for doctor's note or parental consent.

In an earlier version of this story, the Associated Press erroneously reported the bill would allow teenagers younger than 16 ½ to use tanning beds with a doctor's permission. NBCDFW regrets the error.

The Texas House tentatively approved a bill Tuesday that would ban teeangers younger than 16 ½ years old from using a tanning bed.

Older teenagers would need parental consent.

"We are trying to be responsible parents, and we know the science now is that we have more and more cases (of skin cancer) starting at a very early age," said Rep. Burt Solomons, R-Carrollton.

Currently, Texas teenagers between 13 and 18 need parental permission as well as a parent's presence until they are 16.

Some lawmakers and tanning organizations have said the decision should remain with parents.

"If the parent wants to say, 'OK, I'll let you go once,' I think that parent is responsible," said Jodie Laubenberg, R-Rockwall. "You're really going to change Friday night lights at the football game for all these cheerleaders and drill team girls."

The Indoor Tanning Association has said tanning beds are safe for minors and most salons require parent permission slips for teens. The association also contends indoor tanning is safer than outdoor tanning because it can be regulated.

The House will hold a final vote before the measure heads to the Texas Senate for consideration.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us