Suffolk body piercers feel pinch of proposed ban
The Suffolk County Department of Health held a public hearing Thursday on a proposed ban of certain piercings and body art. Dr. David Graham, commissioner of the Health Department, cited health concerns
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Mar 29, 2007, 11:43 PM
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Updated 6,501 days ago
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The Suffolk County Department of Health held a public hearing Thursday on a proposed ban of certain piercings and body art.
Dr. David Graham, commissioner of the Health Department, cited health concerns as the reason behind the proposal.
"The medical literature does outline some serious complications, including infections," Graham said.
Piercing holes in the lips or mouth would be restricted if the proposal is passed. Body art near the eyes, including tattoos and permanent cosmetic applications, would also be made illegal in the county.
Critics like body piercer Lauren Sebestyen said outlawing those forms of self-expression would only make it more dangerous.
"If we're not allowed to offer it in a sanitary environment by trained professionals, they're just gonna do it themselves anyway," Sebestyen said. "It's a very big part of our culture now."
Commissioner Graham said there is no timetable for a vote.
To watch full interviews with Suffolk residents against the body piercing ban, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.
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