SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6683

                    As of February 5, 1998

Title:  An act relating to regulating body art facilities.

Brief Description:  Regulating body art facilities.

Sponsors:  Senators Roach, Fairley, Prentice, Schow and Goings.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Commerce & Labor:  2/6/98.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Staff:  Genevieve Pisarski (786-7488)

Background:  Concern exists that members of the public who obtain body art are incurring the risk of exposure to virus and infection and have no way of knowing which body artists and facilities are fully qualified and use proper techniques to protect and promote public health and safety.

Summary of Bill:  Local public health officers may regulate body art operators and facilities.  Body art includes body piercing, except an ear lobe; tattooing; branding; and scarification; and does not include medical or nursing procedures.

The state Board of Health may adopt requirements for cleanliness of facilities, education of body artists, incorporation of national standards, sanitation, and disclosure of safety information, and for exempting medical practitioners.  

Local programs to regulate body art are based on standards adopted by the state Board of Health or standards that are at least as rigorous.  Fees to cover expenses, up to the actual cost of the regulatory program, may be charged. 

Local programs are encouraged to work with body artists to promote public awareness.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.