FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18)– A public hearing is set to happen in Frankfort on Tuesday over a proposed regulation that would ban tattooing on scarred skin.
Some tattoo artists say this is troubling news for breast cancer survivors or for those who are trying to cover scars that have emotional memories.
State officials will not say what the motivation is behind the proposed ban, but one intended change was to address potential health issues of tattooing over unhealthy skin.
The public will have a chance to hear more at 9 a.m. Tuesday from the Department for Public Health on this proposed ban.
Back in April, LEX 18 spoke to a tattoo artist who was very upset and concerned.
She specializes in making scars beautiful again on customers ranging from breast cancer survivors to people scarred in accidents.
“If they are going to regulate this, they need to regulate it with the health and wellness of people in mind, and not try to ban it entirely,” said Louisa Kleinert.
A spokesperson from the Kentucky Department for Health and Family Services says regulations have not been updated for about 15 years.
The cabinet is reviewing comments from the public to determine if any changes need to be made. Officials say the specific language in the proposition had some unintended consequences that will be addressed.
Public comments on the proposal are being accepted through the end of the month
