The province is proposing legislation to ban people under the age of 19 from using tanning beds. Health Minister Maureen MacDonald says the legislation is aimed at saving young people from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. The legislation, which will encourage healthy habits among young people, was met with support from physicians and a number of health interest groups. In the coming months, the department will work with health partners, tanning bed operators and other interest groups to develop regulations for this legislation which would also require tanning bed operators to display signs with information warning of the health impact of tanning bed use. Businesses that contravene the age restriction could face a $2,000 fine for the first offence, $5,000 for a second and $10,000 for a third.
