PRINCESS ANNE, Md.- A decades old law is preventing a tattoo shop from opening its doors in Princess Anne. The law says that a physician must be present at the time a tattoo is being given within town limits. The owner, Rob West, says he is working with the town on a resolution to open his shop, Studio Ink.
“I am just hoping they grant me an exception or you know change the provision that makes me a doctor or require me to be a doctor,” West said.
West says his tattoo shop would bring revenue to surrounding businesses, but Lionel Frederick, president of the Princess Anne Town Commissioners, says the town is focusing on safety first.
“The law was established many decades ago. Some may say it's outdated but as far as the town of Princess Anne and our council, we're more concerned with the safety and welfare of our residents,'' Frederick said.
Since West has not been able to give anyone ink, he has no income right now but he is holding on to hope that he and the town can work something out.
“It's eating up my savings, but this is a dream I don't want to give up on so I am just going to see it through. I am doing everything I can the correct way and I am not skipping any steps and unfortunately these things take time,” West said.
West says he is backed up with clients until February but has had to push them back for months. Frederick did say the town commissioners and the town attorney are evaluating the law but there is no timetable on when the law may be changed.
