Panel OKs bill to ban children under 14 from tanning booths

A bill that would prevent children under the age of 14 from bronzing their skin at tanning booths cleared the House's Health and Welfare Committee Tuesday. House Bill 338 will now move to the full House for consideration.

The bill is sponsored by Henderson Democratic Rep. David Watkins, who is a physician. "This is simply trying to protect our children and trying to protect our young people," Watkins, right, told WTVQ-TV. "They are utilizing tanning booths to an excess amount and I think parents need to be aware of this."

The bill is backed by the Kentucky Medical Association and the American Cancer Society. If it passes, a parent or business that allows a child under 14 would not face any penalties, though the bill's sponsors would eventually like to see penalties added. (Read more)