FL S0942

Creates comprehensive state regulation of tattooing practice under the Department of Health, requiring tattoo artists to be licensed and tattoo establishments to be permitted, with education and examination requirements on blood-borne pathogens and communicable diseases.

Establishes licensing for tattoo artists (valid 1 year, renewable annually at max $150/year) and registration for guest tattoo artists from other jurisdictions (valid 14 days, max $45), plus separate licensing for permanent tattoo establishments (max $250/year) and temporary establishments at conventions (max $250 for up to 14 days).

Prohibits tattooing of minors under 16 years of age except for medical or dental purposes, requires written notarized parental consent for minors 16-17 years old with parent present and government-issued identification, and provides a defense for artists who reasonably inspect fake identification.

Establishes disciplinary grounds including violations of health codes, fraud, improper record-keeping, and unlicensed practice, with penalties ranging from administrative fines up to $1,500 per violation to license suspension or revocation.

Provides for criminal misdemeanor penalties for operating unlicensed establishments, practicing tattooing without proper licensure, or tattooing outside licensed establishments, effective January 1, 2012.