H 247 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act regulating body art

This bill establishes a new chapter in Massachusetts law to regulate the practice of body art, which includes tattooing, piercing, branding, and other forms of skin modification. It directly affects individuals offering these services and the facilities where they are performed by requiring them to obtain a permit from the Department of Public Health. Key provisions define strict standards for hygiene, mandating the use of sterilization equipment like autoclaves, proper disposal of contaminated waste, and the provision of written aftercare instructions to clients. The legislation also creates a licensing framework that allows for an apprentice license program to train new practitioners under supervision. Overall, the bill aims to ensure safety and sanitation in body art establishments through clear definitions and operational requirements.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action May 30, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Bruce Ayers
Bruce Ayers
DDemocratic
MA
1st Norfolk