The New York State Assembly overwhelming passed a bill last week that would require written parental consent for anyone under the age of 18 to receive a body piercing.
Under the bill, which now heads to the State Senate for consideration, a parent or guardian would need to sign the consent form in the presence of the person who is to perform the piercing.
As of now, there are no age restrictions on body piercings. The bill does not apply to ear piercings.
In a memo, the bill's sponsors wrote:
Of the people with body piercings, more than a third received their first piercing before the age of 18. Body piercings are well-documented to have possible adverse health effects, with complications arising in 25 percent of all cases. These complications include allergic reactions, skin infections, scarring, and general discomfort. It is important for a parent or guardian to be aware of all of the potential risks associated with body piercing, which is generally not the case if written consent is not required by the studio.
What do you think? Should those under 18 be required to obtain parental consent before obtaing a body piercing? Vote in the poll below and share your opinion in the comments section.
