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Senate Approves Parental-Consent Rules for Minors Using Commercial Tanning Beds
Summary
S.B.52, which requires in-person written parental consent annually for minors to use commercial tanning beds and requires facility permits and posted warnings, was advanced by the Senate after members cited melanoma risk and public-health data in debate.
The Utah Senate advanced S.B.52 on Jan. 11, a measure to restrict minor access to commercial tanning beds by requiring in-person written parental consent, facility permits and posted warnings.
Sponsor Senator Jones said the bill addresses health risks and equity across counties, explaining it would replace a patchwork of county policies with a statewide requirement. She cited data linking ultraviolet exposure to increased melanoma risk and said the measure would educate parents and reduce young people's exposure.
Supporters including Senator Walker and Senator Butters spoke from personal experience with skin cancer and urged passage; Senator Eastman asked and the sponsor confirmed the bill preempts county rules so it creates a uniform statewide standard. Senator Stevenson suggested potential future amendments to address home-use tanning beds and noncommercial settings.
The Senate voted to read S.B.52 for a third time; the roll call recorded 26 yes votes, 0 no votes and 3 absences, advancing the bill toward final passage.
What happens next: S.B.52 will be considered for final passage on third reading and, if enacted, would require commercial tanning facilities to obtain permits, post warnings, and secure annual in-person parental consent before minors may use tanning beds.
