California bans use of tanning beds by minors

Ultraviolet tanning bed

Governor Jerry Brown has signed a new bill into law which will prohibit the use of ultraviolet tanning beds by people under the age of 18 in California.

California is the first state to ban minors from using tanning beds. The law is intended to protect minors from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light, especially the associated increased risk of skin cancer.

“Skin cancer is a rising epidemic and the leading cause of cancer death for women between 25 and 29,” said the bill’s sponsor, state Senator Ted Lieu.

The new law goes into effect January 1, 2012.

Information and quote from State bans use of tanning beds by minors –Reuters