House Republican Press Release

January 29, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Penny Bacchiochi Proposes Bill Requiring Parental Consent to Purchase Body Piercing Kits

Law would prohibit individuals under 18 years of age from purchasing kits without permission from guardian 

State Rep. Penny Bacchiochi (R-Stafford) has proposed legislation that would require individuals less than 18 years of age to obtain parental consent to purchase body piercing kits.

Connecticut statutes define body piercing as “piercing or creating a channel through any part of the body other than the ear lobe for the purpose of inserting a decorative object.”

The issue was brought to Rep. Bacchiochi’s attention after a 15-year old constituent purchased a body piercing kit at a street fair, and subsequently pierced his lip. The result was an infection, which then led to further complications.

“When not done by a professional, body piercing can lead to infection and other health maladies,” said Rep. Bacchiochi. “This legislation would require parental consent for minors, and would help prevent improper and unintended usage of body piercing kits. Given that improper application of these kits can harm those using them, some regulation of the sale of body piercing kits makes sense.”

There are no current laws in Connecticut with regard to body piercing kits. The proposed bill, H.B. 5418, has been referred to the legislature’s Public Health Committee.