June 5, 2012
City Clerk Mendoza Releases Statement Supporting Alderman Silverstein’s City Council Ordinance That Bans Minors From Using Tanning Beds

"I fully support Alderman Debra Silverstein’s goal of ensuring the safety of Chicago’s children,” said City Clerk Susana Mendoza. "A recent University of Minnesota study showed that regular use of indoor tanning beds can triple the chances of a person developing melanoma, the second most common cancer among people ages 15 – 29. And, unfortunately Illinois has the eighth highest number of new melanoma cases in the country.”
"I strongly believe in living a healthy, active lifestyle and encourage all Chicagoans to do the same,” continued Clerk Mendoza. "This ordinance is a step towards encouraging our youth to adopt healthy behaviors. I commend Alderman Silverstein for her efforts to educate our young people and protect them from the dangers of UV rays."
“Each year more than 360 Illinois residents will die from melanoma, and another 2,400 new cases will be diagnosed. This ordinance addresses the need for increased awareness and safety precautions surrounding the dangers of indoor tanning beds and I encourage all Aldermen to vote yes at the June 6 City Council meeting supporting Alderman Silverstein’s ordinance,” said Clerk Mendoza.