SB 5580

SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5580

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of February 8, 2007

Title: An act relating to requiring tanning facility businesses to post cancer warning signs.

Brief Description: Requiring tanning facility businesses to post cancer warning signs.

Background: Sun lamps and tanning devices give off ultraviolet radiation–both UVA and UVB–and can be harmful. Ultraviolet radiation can cause aging and skin cancer.

A study published by the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in February 2002 found that people who used tanning devices were 1.5 to 2.5 times more likely to develop common kinds of skin cancer than people who did not use the tanning devices.

Other findings from the study suggest that more public awareness is needed to publicize the risks of skin cancer and the use of tanning devices.

Summary of Bill: A tanning facility is required to post a warning sign in any area where a tanning device is used. The sign must read: DANGER: ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION; Repeated exposure may cause skin cancer.

The sign is to be of a size and in a location on the premises that allows it to be easily read by users before being exposed to the tanning device.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: OTHER: The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) already requires warning signs on all tanning devices. The FDA warning statement is "Danger-Ultraviolet radiation. Avoid overexposure. As with natural sunlight, overexposure can cause eye and skin injury and allergic reactions. Repeated exposure may cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancer. Wear protective eyewear; failure to may result in severe burns or long term injury to the eyes. Medications or cosmetics may increase your sensitivity to the ultraviolet radiation. Consult a physician before tanning if you are using medications or have a history of skin problems or believe yourself especially sensitive to sunlight. If you do not tan in the sun, you are unlikely to tan from use of this product."

In addition the label on the tanning device must contain recommended exposure time. The FDA also requires the tanning device to be equipped with a timer.

The public has been warned about the dangers of exposure to ultraviolet radiation for the past 25 to 30 years. There are also positive effects of exposure to UV such as it is a good source of Vitamin D and it lowers blood pressure.