Missouri Senate passes parent consent bill for tanning beds

Missouri teens younger than 17 would need written parental approval to use tanning beds under legislation passed by the state Senate.

Senators voted 22-10 on Wednesday to send the bill back to the House, where a similar version passed earlier. Lawmakers must pass an identical measure by May 16.

Under the bill, salons that allow teenagers to tan without consent would face a $500 fine. State health officials would be charged with developing a standardized consent form for parents to use.

Supporters say it would help protect teenagers from exposure to ultraviolet rays that can cause skin cancer. Opponents argue it is a government intrusion on small businesses.

This story was originally published May 8, 2014 at 7:12 AM with the headline "Missouri Senate passes parent consent bill for tanning beds."