R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-68-2: Legislative findings.

The legislature finds that:

(1) Various physical complications may arise from frequent and unsupervised use of tanning facilities such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation which can cause severe sunburn and eye injury including cataracts and corneal damage; and

(2) Repeated exposure to ultraviolet light in tanning facilities may also cause premature aging of the skin, skin cancers and abnormal skin sensitivity in persons who may be using certain drugs including some tranquilizers, diuretics, antibiotics, high blood pressure medicines and birth control pills.

(3) It is therefore desirable that citizens are protected against any problems which may result from improperly functioning equipment in tanning facilities, and, given the potential for harm that is presented by establishments using artificial suntan sources, it is imperative that effective minimum safety standards in this health area be established.