HB 656 Summary

• Creates a State Board of Body Modification with nine members (six appointed by Director of Health, three by Governor) to issue licenses to body modification practitioners and regulate the industry.

• Requires licensure for individuals performing tattoos, body piercings, permanent cosmetics, scarification, and branding; establishes training requirements in sterilization, aftercare, disease prevention, CPR, and first aid.

• Mandates local board of health approval for body modification establishments with detailed facility standards, infection prevention plans, equipment specifications, and annual inspections.

• Establishes comprehensive safety and sanitation standards including sterilization procedures, single-use needles and equipment, glove requirements, aftercare guidelines, and specific protocols for tattoos and piercings.

• Renumbers existing tattooing and piercing regulations from Chapter 3730 to Chapter 4785 of the Revised Code and creates penalties ranging from fourth-degree misdemeanor to felony charges for violations.