State Legislatures Convene; Troubles Begin

The 2009 legislative season kicked off in January when most of the 50 state legislatures began new sessions. One would think that, with all the challenges facing state governments (such as big-budget deficits, an economy in recession and rising unemployment), placing additional restrictions on small businesses would have a low priority.

Not so in Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, Minnesota, Washington, Oklahoma, Wyoming and Florida. In each state, bills with varying degrees of restriction on the industry have already been proposed. The common theme is once again limiting—or even banning—teen access.

Florida has one of the most puzzling proposals—a south Florida legislator is seeking to ban teens under age 16 from tanning. Why would a state where tourism and sandy beaches are an important part of the economy consider going on record against tanning? Maybe the next step would be to employ “suntan police” on beach or erect warning signs on Interstate 95.

The number of bills introduced in 2009 tracks closely with what the industry has experienced in past years, and those of us at the ITA are still expecting more legislation to be introduced this year. The ITA needs your help to stop these bills. If you want to get involved, call the ITA at 202.267.1142.

Source:

Indoor Tanning Association