For Immediate Release: May 10, 2006

Bill Regulating Tattooing Signed into Law

State Sen. Frank Shurden said Gov. Brad Henry had joined the Senate and House in approving his legislation aimed at preventing the spread of disease by giving the Department of Health oversight of tattooing in the state. Gov. Henry signed that legislation on Wednesday.

“I’ve said all along, this is a public health issue. If these businesses fail to follow basic health guidelines, they could be spreading terrible diseases like Hepatitis or Aids,” said Shurden, D-Henryetta.

Under Senate Bill 806, it will still be illegal to perform tattooing on anyone younger than eighteen. It would also be illegal to perform body piercing on a minor, except with written consent for the procedure from a legal guardian, and a parent or legal guardian must be present during the procedure. The act does not apply to ear piercing.

“This law will take effect November 1, 2006. After that, any businesses or individuals performing tattooing without being licensed by the Health Department will face stiff penalties,” Shurden said.

Violators of the new law could face fines of up to $5,000 per violation per day as well as having their license revoked.

“The main thing is protecting our citizens against the spread of potentially deadly diseases. By finally licensing and regulating tattooing in Oklahoma, we can do a better job of protecting the public’s health,” Shurden said.

For more information, contact:
Senator Shurden's Office: (405) 521-5588