Alberta to propose law that would ban people under 18 from tanning beds

EDMONTON – Alberta’s health minister says a new law will be introduced in the fall that will keep people under 18 out of tanning beds.

Fred Horne had earlier said legislation would protect youth from skin cancer, but he didn’t indicate if that meant including such a ban.

He says a scientific committee has examined the issue and laws in other provinces.

He says overwhelming evidence shows people exposed to artificial tanning have an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

All other provinces — except Saskatchewan and Manitoba — have laws preventing youths from using indoor tanning equipment.

Saskatchewan ruled out a ban earlier this year and Manitoba lets young people use the beds if they have parental consent.