California’s governor has signed into effect SB 246, which bans the use of tanning beds by anyone under the age of 18- making California the first state to pass such a law.  The bill was the result of efforts by the California Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery and the Aim at Melanoma Foundation, and had the support of many other groups.  The law won’t take effect until January 1, 2012 and will ban minors from using indoor tanning beds, with the exception of phototherapy prescribed by a doctor.  Research has shown that use of indoor tanning beds has a direct correlation with an increased risk in melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.