Albany is set to host its first-ever tattoo convention, following a significant legislative update aimed at modernizing health regulations for body art events. During a recent government meeting, local business owner and tattoo artist Jeff Riano highlighted the need for updated laws that reflect current practices in the industry.

The proposed legislation will allow tattoo conventions to utilize surgical scrubs instead of requiring a portable sink at every tattoo station, a requirement that has proven impractical for large events. Riano emphasized that this change aligns Albany with practices already adopted by major cities across the United States, facilitating the growth of the local tattoo culture.

Riano, who has nearly two decades of experience in the tattoo industry and previously organized a successful convention in Schenectady, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the event to Albany. He noted his strong ties to the community and his desire to contribute to the city's cultural landscape.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, but not before Riano's passionate appeal for the convention was acknowledged. The local government is now poised to finalize the legislation, paving the way for what many hope will be a vibrant addition to Albany's event calendar.