Government Tan Lines: Examining the Reach and Effectiveness of Federal and State Efforts to Protect Consumers from the Dangers of Indoor Tanning

Abstract

This Comment will explore current federal and state regulation of the indoor tanning industry and its effectiveness in protecting consumers. It will also explore the reasoning behind the most recent surge of indoor tanning regulation-restricting use by minors. Through this discussion it will become clear that more is needed in order to protect consumers, especially if regulators are aiming to reduce incidents of skin cancer. This Comment will pose the question of whether the "more" that is needed is additional regulation, or something beyond regulatory reach.

Part II will begin with an examination of the history of the indoor tanning industry and the beginnings of federal and state attempts to regulate the industry in the United States. Part III will discuss the current regulation of the indoor tanning industry and the practical effects of this regulation, focusing on state level tanning restrictions for minors. Part IV of this Comment will discuss predictions and recommendations for future regulation. Part V will examine some non-regulatory alternatives which could ensure greater consumer protection, and Part VI will conclude the Comment.