Tattoo Licensing Not Enforced Yet

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- A new state law that went into effect Jan. 1 requires tattoo shops and their artists to get a license. But, state officials said enforcement of the law isn't expected to start anytime soon.

Department of Health attorney Kyle Renell said his office has been "inundated" with licensing applications from tattoo parlors and body art technicians. The department has not yet filled the job of inspector, who will visit tattoo shops. Renell says the challenge is handling all the paperwork, that has not yet been processed.

The Winona Daily News said about 100 businesses have been given "provisional" licenses. Full licenses won't be issued until an on-site inspection is done to make sure tattoo instruments are sterile and records are being properly kept.

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