The law proposes that under-18s could not use tanning machines

Assemblyman Joe Nation wants under-18 year olds to be barred from the sun-beds and sun-lamps.

Mr Nation fears that getting an artificial tan can be a health risk.

The proposals are meant to protect youngsters known as "tanorexics" who often use tanning salons, particularly before events such as school proms.

At present, children between the ages of 14 and 18 need parental permission to use tanning machines in salons.

Skin cancer

But the Bill being proposed by Mr Nation would prohibit under-18 year olds from using a tanning device, unless it was prescribed by a doctor.

The proposals note that a million people in the United States develop skin cancer each year - and it mentions the prevalence of melanoma among young women in particular.

Instead young people could be encouraged to use other type of fake tans - if they weren't using the Californian sun.