State leaders pass bill on age restrictions for tanning beds

Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to legislation requiring parental consent for children younger than 17 to use commercial tanning beds.

House members approved the bill 103-38 on Monday. It passed the Senate 22-10 last week and goes now to Gov. Jay Nixon.

The measure includes penalties for businesses that allow customers under 17 use tanning beds without parental consent. First-time violators would be fined $100. The fine would increase to $250 for the second violation and to $500 after that.

Supporters say the bill would help protect teens from exposure to ultraviolet rays that can lead to skin cancer. Critics argued the requirement amounts to government intrusion on small businesses.