Governor Cuomo Signs Law to Protect New York State’s Young People from the Dangers of Skin Cancer Due to Indoor Tanning

ALBANY, NY – August 16, 2018 – Governor Cuomo has signed a bill into law that protects New York’s young people by prohibiting the use of indoor tanning devices by minors under the age of 18.

ACS CAN New York Government Relations Director Julie Hart released the following statement:

“We are thrilled to see New York take a stand to reduce the chance of kids receiving a skin cancer diagnosis in the future. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States with millions of cases being diagnosed annually. We wouldn’t encourage a young person to smoke, and we shouldn’t allow them use indoor tanning devices as they both cause cancer.

“The bottom line is indoor tanning devices are dangerous, particularly for the young. Ultraviolet(UV) radiation emitted from tanning devices is one of the most avoidable known risk factors for skin cancer.

“In fact, indoor tanning use before the age of 35 increases melanoma risk by a whopping 59 percent.  In New York State this year alone, it is estimated that almost 5,000 people will be diagnosed with melanoma.

“We thank Governor Cuomo for signing this important public health measure into law as well as the bill sponsors Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee and Senator Phil Boyle.”