Legislature Passes Tattoo Bill

Sacramento, CA– Today the California State Assembly passed AB 223, The Safe Body Art Act. This legislation authored by Assemblywoman Fiona Ma of San Francisco, creates statewide standards for tattooing, body piercing and the application of permanent cosmetics in California.

The bill was introduced in response to a growing concern over the lack of standards for tattooing and piercing and its effects on public health. Last year Assemblywoman Ma introduced similar legislation, AB 517, which was vetoed by the Governor.  In his veto message, the Governor stated he did not understand the need for the bill.

“Manicurists have more training than tattooists or piercers,” Assemblywoman Ma said. “They need 400 hours of training before they can cut your nails, yet tattooists and piercers have no training requirements to stick a needle in you.”

The Governor has until September 30th to act on AB 223.

Written by tina.falco@mlode.com