ALBANY - The State Senate passed legislation to help protect teens from the dangers of skin cancer.  The legislation (S2917A) would strengthen the state’s indoor tanning law by prohibiting teens ages 16 and under from using indoor ultraviolet (UV) tanning devices.

“Research has shown that indoor UV tanning can significantly increase the chances of developing skin cancer and that the rays produced by indoor tanning machines are far more intense than those produced by the sun”, said Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick), the b ill’s sponsor.  Children are not always concerned with the long-term effects of their decisions, which is why adults have a responsibility to act and keep them safe.  This legislation would help protect children from something that could cause them serious harm later in life.”

Medical experts have repeatedly warned about the potential dangers associated with indoor tanning.  Indoor tanning before age 30 increases a person’s chances of getting cancer by 75 percent, according to the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

The legislation is widely supported by a number of health and advocacy organizations, including the American Cancer Society; American Academy of Pediatrics; American Academy of Dermatology Association; Medical Society of the State of New York; National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention; New York State Academy of Family Physicians; and the Colette Coyne Melanoma Awareness Campaign.

"Indoor tanning causes cancer in too many people and children are at the greatest risk”, said Blair Horner, Vice President for Advocacy, American Cancer Society, Eastern Division.   “According to research published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 10 percent of 14 year olds, 12 percent of 15 year olds and 15 percent of 16 year olds have used indoor tanning facilities.  By banning indoor tanning for those 16 years old and younger, this measure provides significant cancer protections for those teens.”

The legislation has also been passed by the Assembly and will be sent to Governor Cuomo for consideration.