State And Local Regulations

The Board of Cosmetology opposed the local ordinance because the industry in Columbus was already subject to both state and federal regulations, and contradicting rules at the city level made no sense. If the measure had passed, it would have been possible for a salon to be completely in compliance with both the FDA and state codes and still be cited and fined by a Columbus Weights and Measures inspector.

The main intent of the rule seemed to be that customers get at least as much time as they paid for, but no provision was made for customizing exposure time for skin type, demonstrating a clear lack of knowledge about the tanning process and the risks of overexposure. If someone goes to a car wash or a laundromat, it doesn’t hurt them if the timer runs a little long. However, if they’re tanning, it’s far preferable for them to be shortchanged than overexposed.

Clearly, local authorities can benefit from informed input. However, those who have experience in working with legislators on any level recommend that the most important thing to do is to arrange your support and prepare your strategy before ever meeting with them. Learn as much about ultraviolet radiation and its effects as possible. Don’t hesitate to request information from the FDA, a trade association, magazine or manufacturer.

Once you’re armed with the facts, calmly offer constructive advice, not just complaints. The squeaky wheel gets the grease, but it’s annoying all the same. If you have an argument with something, be sure to have a suggested improvement prepared. Give it to them in writing so they can refer back to it in later planning sessions.

Don’t overlook other local businesses as allies either. The greater the number of local business owners who show interest in the developing regulations, the more seriously most authorities will take the process. If addressing authorities at a public meeting, a coalition of salon owners would be well-advised to compare notes and consider electing one spokesperson, rather than having several consecutive speakers rehash the same points over and over again. The easier it is for the council or board to listen and the more reasonably salon owners come across, the better the chances of success.

If regulations are proposed that you do not find objectionable, plan to attend the public hearings anyway and comment on the proposals. There’s no telling what can be changed or added on at the last minute.

It seems that the days of loose operating requirements for tanning salons are numbered, a change that is welcomed by many in the industry. As time goes on, complying with local regulations will become an unavoidable part of operating a salon. Fortunately, the CRCPD model as well as many of the codes currently in effect should act as benevolent precedents, making it less likely that one-sided rulings unfairly inhibit the profitability of providing indoor tanning services to the public.

Sample State Regulations

The following is a sample of state regulations for indoor tanning. These regulations were provided by the state of Tennessee.