State lawmakers look to put restrictions on indoor tanning - KOAM TV 7

Some Missouri lawmakers have concerns over a proposed bill that aims at limiting teens who visit a tanning facility.

The proposal would restrict anyone younger than the age of 15 from using tanning equipment.

However, today the proposal was sent back to a Missouri House committee because some Republicans raised concerns about government infringement on individual freedoms.

One state Republican says the bill may instead require parental consent for teens younger than 18 to use a tanning facility.

A local dermatologist says there should be some sort of requirement.

"When we do things that are not safe, then our government intervenes," says Dr. Derek Towery from Joplin.  "They require us to wear seat belts.  They won't let anyone under 21 drink alcohol.  They have smoking age limits as well.  So I see that as sort of the same thing.  We know tanning is harmful to your health."

A new study from the Mayo Clinic found a dramatic increase of first-time melanoma in patients age 18 to 39, especially among women.

Researchers blame the rise in use of indoor tanning beds and childhood sunburns.