Colorado Considering New Teen Tanning Laws

The state of Colorado is quickly becoming known as a very progressive state, in lieu of liberal marijuana decriminalization laws and a slew of other liberal laws that have been passed in recent years. But one area where it may be clamping down on is teen tanning.

A bill is currently being considered by the house in this state that, if passed, would enact several ramifications for teen tanners. The bill proposes that teens under 15-years-old be banned from tanning salons unless they have a doctor’s note. Teens 15-18 would require parental consent every six months.

Several prominent doctors disagree with the bill’s provisioning, saying that it does not do enough to safeguard teens.

"This bill does not go far enough to keep our adolescents safe," said Dr. Joe Chorny, head of the Colorado Dermatologic Society.

Rep. Cherilyn Peniston recently withdrew her sponsorship of the measure, stating, “We make sausage here, and I hope this is sausage we can swallow.”

Other states are hopping on the teen tan ban bandwagon, too. Currently there are 25 other states that are considering similar propositions, according to information provided by National Conference of State Legislatures.

While some parents have lashed out against these bills, saying that it should be at the discretion of the parent, and not of the state, doctors contend otherwise.

Dr. Gregory Papadeas views the limits as marginal, but a step in the right direction.

"It will save lives, I guarantee you," Papadeas said.

The bill will now move to the house, where it will be voted on for passage into law or voted out.