Taboo Tattoo: A Possible Ban On Artistic Expression

YOU may consider a tattoo or a body piercing a from of “modern art”, but now, due to a host of “dangerous” fly by night operation, local officials are looking to crack down on the industry. In fact, officials are gathering to review a proposal calling for a ban on a variety of extreme body art, and targeting those practices that include scarification, skin braiding, permanent makeup around the eyes, and piercings of the mouth, nose, eyes, and genital areas.

And, despite what you may think, some owners of piercing and tattoo parlors applaud the effort, noting that strict guidelines and regulations should be in place, ensuring such delicate procedures are performed properly and safely. However, they feel that the word “ban” may be too harsh, inciting a negative reaction in people and hurting local business.

At least one professional noted that the ban should target operations in flea markets, and piercing pagodas (in malls or private homes). And, he added that most such practices are not even that prevalent here on Long Island.

Officials say their objective is to implement a waiting period for certain procedures and a sanitary code rather that a full-scale ban.

The measure is awaiting the approval of the panel by the board of health. Once selected, the committee will take about a month to do its work making it possible for the board to take action by late summer or early fall.