AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine could join 17 states that ban kids from the tanning bed.
The Senate sent the bill to the Democratic governor’s desk Wednesday.
The effort has failed in years past, but has gained support under the newly Democratic Legislature.
The National Conference of State Legislatures says 17 states ban the use of tanning beds for minors under 18.
Supporters point to research indicating overexposure to ultraviolet light happens more commonly in teens and increases the chance of skin cancer later on. The American Academy of Dermatology says over half of indoor tanners started tanning before age 21, while one-third started before age 18.
Critics, including several Republican senators, say the bill will harm tanning businesses. A Republican effort to allow minors to use a tanning device with a prescription failed.
