(2-11-2004) Should tattoo parlors be legal in South Carolina?

BB, West Columbia:
Of course they should. With the proper regulation and supervision there's no reason not to allow them to open.
CT, Orangeburg:
Yes, I think it should be legalized. Legalizing it will help with the economy. Right now people go to Georgia and other neighboring states. Keep their money here where we need it and legalize it
AY, Springfield:
I think tatto parlors in S.C. should be legal. I do not have a tatto nor do I like them. However people will get them anyway legal or not. So why not make them legal and put them under some kind of state guide lines.
BK, Atlanta:
I was born and raised in Columbia. I've lived in Atlanta for 8 years now. I can't belive this is a debate. Tattoo's should be legal in SC. What right does anyone have to tell someone what they can do to their body? Answer none, my body is MY temple, I'll do with it what I want. TC from Columbia you're right, SC is not the bible belt any more, it remains the buckle. And, it's because of close minded people like you that hold back progression, and in my mind, that's what this is really about. Bible beaters need to beat their bibles on their own and leave politics alone.
CP, Columbia:
Yes, Tattoos should be legal. I honestly don't know why they aren't in the first place. It's a matter of self-expression. I personally have 3 (which I had done in another state) and each one has a meaning to me. It's all about freedom of expression.
RK, Gaston:
I have many tatoo's that where done in another state.I believe we should be able to get tatoo's here in S.C. . I pesonally wouldn't because I can trust the "work" of my artist.But, people would need to research the artist's work before they allow "any stranger" to tatoo them.I like having to travel 2 hours, before the work is actually done.It gives me time to think about what I am about to have done..
MB, columbia:
Of course it should be legal for anyone over 21 yrs of age to get one. If you are't responsible enough to make this type decision concerning your body without the states input, then you shouldn't be allowed to vote because thats a major decision too!! Or is that what they are trying to tell us....we aren't smart enough to vote.
BH, West Columbia:
No! Young people get these horrible things on their body and when they get older they regret it, but it is too late. If God wanted our bodies written and drawn all over, He would have done it Himself. God made each and every one of us unique and special. Our bodies are His temple and we should treat them as such.
sg, pelion:
i think that they should be legal because if a person wants a tattoo they will get it out of state so why not keep the money in our state.
AJ, Blythewood:
I think it's rediculous that they were ever illegal. Maybe it's because I come from the north, where they don't have things like mini-bottles, no shopping in parts of Walmart till 1pm on Sundays, and laws against tattoo parlors. This state is far behind the ball it isn't funny. Why are we keeping people from doing things they want that are harmless to the rest of the population? Having tattoo parlors in SC is not going to raise rates of murders or theft or anything other crimes, so what why is this in question?
TC, Columbia:
You know, our opinion really doesn't matter because the legislature is going to do what they want to do. They could what what we think. It's election year so they are going to go through great lengths to get those votes. Whether it is writing all over your body, piercing your private parts, killing babies, or allowing same sex marriages. They do not care about morals anymore. South Carolina is no longer the Bible belt anymore. This state has basically turned into trash just like all other states. God will intervene one of these days---and I don't see the legislature making it into His Kingdom.
LB, west columbia:
NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!and lawmakers should not even be discussing it until more important issues are discussed and resolved like high taxes, budget and so forth. This is not worth the money it's taking to discuss such. I think people to put these things on their bodies look nasty and it looks degrading especially on women. If you give people an inch they'll take a mile. If this is legalized, then more money and efforts are being spent on sanitation and healthcare costs. Anything that breaks through the skin you will find at some point is not healthy. Why pay money to degrade yourself. If I can't take it off my body, then I don't want it.
AB, Lexington:
I think that they should be legal for people over 21. They should regulate the parlors for cleanliness. I think that adults in South Carolina should be able to choose whether or not they want to get a tatoo. If they do not like tatoos, don't get one. If you don't approve of the parlors, don't go in one.
JW, Prosperity:
Why shouldn't tattoo parlors be legal? How much money does this state lose every year to NC and GA because our residents go there to get tattoos. There are plenty of other problems in this state for our reps to be dealing with. Legalize tattoo parlors so that the business can be regulated.
TG, Blythewood:
Tattooing should be legalized here, but thoroughly regulated. I am a Christian woman, wife, and mother of two college-aged children. When our children expressed their desire to get a tatoo, we found a place in Charlotte and all four of us went one day and got tatoos! The man who did our tatoos is meticulously sanitary and he's an artist. I have a beautiful butterfly above my ankle and my husband got a beautiful cross with his favorite scripture on his arm. Yes, it should be legalized, but regulated and those who want to judge us by our appearance need to get to know us.
TN, Dalzell:
Tattoo parlors should be made legal in South Carolina. I have 2 tattoos myself and have had to travel to North Carolina and Georgia to get them. Decorating my own body is a freedom that I feel I have a right to do without anyone else's opinion. We are behind the times in being only one of two states still banning tattooing. We finally got a lottery so why not legalize tattoo parlors?
BC, Branchville:
I think South Carolina should make tattooing legal. Everyone who wants a tattoo in SC goes to a neighboring state and spends their money. There is a lot of money in tattooing. It is about time that South Carolina gets to benefit from it.
JP, Sumter:
I wish SD of West Columbia would stop uning common sense, thats illegal in South Carolina. Our lawmakers need things like this and mini-bottles and queer weddings to argue about because they are too cowardly to discuss the budget. I just hope the people of this state remembers this next election.
BH, Columbia:
Yes, of course tattoo parlors should be leagal in SC as they should be anywhere else. It is a centuries old art form and an individual choice. For those that are letting their religious beliefs sway their decision I say SHUT UP. Religion has NO PLACE in the debate over weather something should be legal or illegal. There is nothing more infuriating than to have to listen to bible beaters preach about what god says is right or wrong. Keep it to yourselves and let the rest of us make up our own minds and live our lives by OUR beliefs not yours. Please keep in mind that not everyone feels as you and should not be subjected to your closeminded attitude. You live your life with blinders on people. Remember, minds are like parachutes, they only work when OPEN.
SV, Heath Springs:
To LP in Lexington, why do you think just because you have a tattoo you have a self-esteem problem. you shouldn't judge people from something they have on their body. what is so wrong with tatoos, if that's what the person wants then they should have it done! i have one myself and it doesn't ruin my skin. tattoo parlors should be legal in the state, some of them are even cleaner than doctor offices or restaraunts!
KP, Lexington:
Yes, of course they should. People are getting tattoos anyway, only in unregulated, unsanitary places. Or they are going to other states instead of spending the money in SC. It is an art form, of course not to everyone's liking. But if you don't like them, no one is making you get one. I don't tell you what to do with your body, don't tell me or other tattoo-lovers what to do with theirs. The real chuckle here is that body piercings (in every imaginable part of the body) are legal in SC. Which is a much more invasive thing to do than a tattoo. This state is so far behind the times in so many individual libery areas, this controversy is almost laughable. Make regulated, sanitary tattoo parlors legal!
MS, Lexington:
Let's legalize tattoos. This is a minor issue that everyone is making mountains out of. I say legalize tattoos to 1 get our state out of the dark ages and 2 so we can keep all that revenue that our residents are giving to NC and GA. Lets look at the whole picture and legalize tattoos for this reason to keep our revenue in our state and to give some of our residents employment. There are far more important issues to fight over other than tattoos for instance better health care, or reducing taxes here in our state to help the citizens of our state and by legalizing tattoos at least the new revenue would stay here for us to use to accomplish these more important things that I'm sure we all agree mean more than whether or not to keep revenue going across our borders to help other states.
DS, Lexington:
Sure, why not? One, your keeping the money in SC. Two, it's a business and someone trying to earn a living, which employs others, therefore creating JOBS. SC is so lame.
LR, Columbia:
Yes it should be legal. The state loses money when my friends and I drive to Augusta and Atlanta to get a legal tatoo.
MM, Little Mountain:
Sure. Legalize it so it can be regulated. Maybe that will create a safe, sanitary place for these idiots who want to draw themselves up to look like trash. The least we can do is keep them healthy so we can watch those tattoos sag and droop with age. Gonna be some funny pictures some day!
CP, New Zion:
How can a tattoo be offensive? I believe a person should have the right to choose. Thats what makes the United States of America a great country.
BD, Lexington:
Yes, tattoo establishments should be allowed to operate in our state. A lot of South Carolinians go out of state and unfortunately a lot of kids gets their tattoos from unregulated/underground/very dangerous people. The tattoo places should be regulated and supervised through DHEC, just like restaurants with the minimum age being 18. Thank you.
MH, COLUMBIA:
I think that the Legislature should be spending more time on solving problems such as the high taxes people have to pay in this sorry state!people better open there eyes before these SC (GOOD-OLD-BOYS)takes you to the cleaners!you can’t own any thing new here for the high taxes! unless you register it in another state! i don’t think it’s any of the lawmakers business if you want to get Tattoos!
JD, Lexington:
If you legalize tattooing does that open the door for same sex marriages? If it does then I'm not in favor of it. For the most part a tattoo in a tasteful manner is ok if it's what a person wants but most people can't stop with one and the next thing you know they look hideous. Can you tell that I'm against same sex marriages? I think the world was a better place when they were all in the closets! Have a nice day!
BK, Sumter:
Yes, legalize Tattoo Parlor's and Tax them at 15% instead of the normal State Tax of 5%.
DW, Newberry:
YES!I believe I should have the choice as to what I put,or don't put, on MY body! I already have 3. I go to Georgia and give that state the benefits of my money. You would be surprised to know that doctors, lawyers, judges, and other well respected people have them too! Make sure that they are regulated well and that they are goverened by DHEC. This will bring extra money into our state.Bring them on; I'm ready for #4! By the way; I am a mother, grand-mother, and a nurse.
JG, Lexington:
I think tattoo parlors should be legal here in South Carolina. I personally have five tattoos and my husband has six we had to go to Georgia to get them, so when you look at it we are helping Georgias economy. If a person wants to get a tattoo they will find somewhere to go. Why not legalize tattooing here so that the money can stay here in our state. Thank You
BL, gaston:
I think that tattoo parlors should be legal as long as a strict health guidline is followed. People currently are illegally getting tattoos in SC and are ending up with AIDS and Hepititus. Why not let those who want them have them done with confidence and safety?
VJ, Columbia:
Tattooing one's body is a form of self-expression. It is no different from a person dying their hair or making a change in style. However, I do believe tattoo artists should be licensed, as are beauticians. They should study & be taught the art in order to maintain safety and sanitary conditions.
MH, Orangeburg:
I feel very strongly about tatoo parlors in South Carolina. My feelings are, that our congressman and senate should all be fired for wasting tax payer dollars on bills like this one. I am fed up with issues like this taking valuable time and dollars. We need to get past the small things once and for all and move onto the things that will move this state forward.(Education, Education, Education, Education)
HS, Columbia:
Tattoos, because of their overwhelming popularity in America today, are currently being performed in SC under questionable conditions of safety and health. While their presence in our state regrettably adds to the landscape in seedy surroundings, regulating their applications protects our citizens and is a common sense response. In the long run, it will build well-established practices of laser surgery for some of our doctors.
SD, West Columbia:
Why not? We sell alcohol, causes wrecks. We sell porn, causes addictions and leads to promiscuity. We sell knives and guns to kill people! So why not have tatto parlors? As far as I know, they do not cause any violence or lead to any such thing...I say bring the tattos, take away the booze and porn and so forth.
RW, Florence:
Of cousre they should. Brings a joke to mind. What's the differance between tattooed people and non tattooed people? Tattooed people don't care whether or not some idiot from Irmo gets tattooed or not, as long as he leaves us the heck alone.
RG, hopkins:
This is a free country,were people should be alowd to do/beleive what they want .For to long in South Carolina the old ways/leaders have controled what went on in the state. I think that it is about time that South Carolina shows that the younger pepole that come here [Like colleage kids] and residence can have the things that other states have.Let us not forget the tax revenue and income,jobs that they will provide.Every little bit helps doesent it?
BM, Camden:
I think tattoo parlors should be illegal in South Carolina and the USA.
BY, West Columbia:
No. I think they look cheap on women especially. It will lead to other things our State does not need. We have enough health problems to deal with now. Keep them illegal.
DP, Florence:
Tattoo parlours, if they follow regulations like GA & NC, should be allowed in SC. If parents are concerned that their kids might get one, they should have more control of their children.
mj, columbia:
I think it should be legalized of course guidelines should be followed so that safety precautions are met. As long as your 18 and over you should be able to get a tattoo.Instead of going to another state and getting it done.
DS, Manning:
Tattoos should be legal in South Carolina. It is the choice of the individual, not the goverment or church weather they chose to express theirselves.
MC, Columbia:
Keep the money local! Allow tattoo parlors in SC.
rc, columbia:
yes i think tatoo parlors should be legal in south carolina, cause thats more money that people from south carolina are taking and spending in other states, i myself would not have to go out of state either to get them, so think of it like we did the lottery, the miney being spent in other states can be spent here.
AB, Eastover:
Yes, I think that tatoo parlors be legal in South Carolina because it is safer than the people doing it themselves.
LS, Elgin:
Yes i think they should be legalized it is more convient for those of us who have no transportation to augusta or wherever to get a tattoo it would be nice as long as things are cosher and safe i see no problem with them be legalized
SH, Columbia:
I believe that tattoo parlors should be legal in South Carolina. It is your own body and you should be able to make the choice if you want to get a tattoo or not.
JC, West Columbia:
I vote no to all tatooing. It is pagan and just plain ugly.
LP, Lexington:
I think that EM of Irmo touched on something that I have noticed for some time, now. Ever notice that most people who get a tattoo and dote on it to the extreme seem to have serious self esteem or self worth issues? It is as though getting this piece of "artwork" permanently attached to them somehow makes them a more worthwhile and valuable person. In most cases (at least with women that I notice) they have perfectly beautiful skin and then they go and defile that beauty with something that looks like it came from the Sunday comic pages. If this were about making them illegal, I would say leave it alone as it is not worth the time that the Legislature should be spending on solving problems such as the budget and raises for our beleagured state employees. Since it is already illegal, I would hope that they just drop the issue and let tattoo parlors remain illegal in SC. If the call of one's low self esteem is so loud that they must decorate themselves in such a manner, let them travel the distace to NC or GA. For some confused younger people in their late teens or early 20's, the difficulty in lining up a ride might give them the time to decide their money and looks are better spent elsewhere. On the other hand, if we tax it enough and regulate it enough and include a clause that the parlors (owners / managers) have to pay for the medical removal of their artwork for their customers for up to 25 years from the time it is applied, maybe it wouldn't be so bad. It would give those who get them and change their mind an option.
am, cayce:
Yes, I think they should legalize tattoos.It will be safer since they are going to regulate the parlors, besides you can't stop someone from doing what they have made up their minds to do. You can only make it harder for them to achieve their goals!
GC, Swansea:
Why not? Sure, they should have been made legal years ago. And, ensure there's a tax on them - some extra money for the State.
VA, Hopkins:
Yes tatoo parlors should be legalized. Like the lotto tickets of yore, Georgia is where alot of the South Carolinians go for tatoos. I know, I have three myself? Why not put the money back into the pocket of a South Carolina business person and not Georgia?
FD, Irmo:
The lawmakers are taking on all of the important issues this year in this state! Tatoos, elmination of mini bottles and stopping gay marriages. I am impressed with the accomplishments they are making. I wouldn't worry about the other issues such as the budget, deplorable shape of our roads, tax increases on homeowners and schools. We the citizens need to think of these accomplishments next time we vote. This will help make our decision on who to vote for!
AC, West Columbia:
Yes they should be legal. How ridiculous to have it be illegal for so long? Has anyone looked around and seen how many people have them. Also, don't ban them to the seediest areas of town. This will only promote problems with the parlors. If we have to have them, make them the cleanest, safest, most regulated places to get a tatoo!
SM, Irmo:
Yes I believe they should be legal and properly regulated. I'm not a big fan of tatoos but I can respect the decision of others who do desire to get one. It's a personal preference by the individual and it could bring much needed money to our state.
LG, Florence:
Yes. Ablolutely. Tattoos are one of the earliest artistic expressions of man. They are protected by the First Amendment rights in the Constitution of the United States of America. Why they were ever made illegal here in SC is a puzzle to me. We need to honor the rights of artistic expression and take responsibility to regulate the practice of tattooing since this involves piercing the skin with needles. Tattooing should have safety regulations just like theose that regulate body piercing and other medical procedures involving blood exposure.
AA, Dalzell:
Yes, I think they should be legal. It should be up to the individual to decide if they want a tattoo. A lot of people have them. If someone wants one, they have to drive to NC or GA to get one. Why not let the sales be in SC? The state is losing money.
EM, Irmo:
My self-esteem is not low enough to warrant the need for attention that tattoo seekers want. However, those people do exist, and if it makes them feel better I wouldn’t stand in their way. There are probably far more people opposed to alcohol, but there are bars and liquor stores on every corner. I’d rather share the road with someone leaving a tattoo parlor if you catch my drift.
JC, Batesburg:
I think that tattoo parlors should be legal in South Carolina.
DG, columbia:
yes tattoo palors should be legal and should have been legal long ago. Just goes to show how culturally behind sc really is.
DT, West Columbia:
I personally find tattoos disgusting, but the fact that something is disgusting shouldn’t make it illegal. Those who want tattoos seem to have no trouble getting them, so the existence of a law against tattoo parlors doesn’t seem to make any difference. At least if tattoo parlors were legal they could be taxed and regulated.
JR, Columbia:
Yes! I'm tired of driving to Augusta to get a tattoo.
KJ, COLUMBIA:
Of course they should be legal. Are we any different than N.C.? NO!
WW, Columbia:
Why are we discussing this? Have they passed the budget yet? Have they debated the budget yet? Lets discuss tattoo parlors and queers getting married after the budget question is resolved.
JP, Columbia:
Why not, being illegal has not stopped them just like video gambling. The legislature should pass some requirement for them to be insured to protect the taxpayers having to pay for diseases, infections, or other adverse medical results from tattoos. If a tattoo parlor does not have adequate insurance, the shop should be closed and all equipment seized. The taxpayers have enough to pay for (like the new chairs at county council) without having to be responsible for tattoo parlor mistakes.
CB, camden:
Why not?? It is legal in all states but 2 and we are one of them. I think they should be monitored for health reasons, but at least maybe ppl won't be tatooing each other in unhealthy situations.