FRANKFORT — The House approved a measure Tuesday that would limit tanning bed use for teens. If passed by the Senate, Kentucky teens under age 18 could only use a tanning bed with written permission from a parent.

House Bill 249 originally prohibited teens under the age of 14 from using tanning bans. Rep. David Watkins, D-Henderson, a doctor, said exposure to ultra violet light, particularly in tanning beds, can accelerate skin cancer.

But Rep. Tim Moore, R-Elizabethtown, offered an amendment that was later adopted by the full House that would allow children under the age of 18 to use a tanning bed if they have written permission from a parent.

Moore said some people are prescribed ultra violet light by a doctor to treat conditions such as jaundice. Other students use tanning beds for a limited amount of time, such as before prom, he said.

The House ultimately voted 86-10 to pass HB 249.