Tattoos are now legal in Norfolk, VA. The only reason they were ever illegal is because they attracted an “unsavory and vulgar” element which, in the 1950’s, when the ban was put in place, must mean that they attracted the United States Navy. A few years ago some people had the guts to challenge a similar tattoo ban in Virginia Beach, VA and now tattoo parlors are legal and gaining popularity in Virginia Beach. Since, politically, not much has changed in Norfolk since the puritanical 1950’s I can only imagine that the reason the ban is finally being lifted is that we just cannot handle the thought of Virginia Beach making more money than us.
I’m fine with it. I like tattoos. I’ve always wanted one. Tattoos are as mainstream as dudes with earrings these days. It’s not a big deal, and, frankly, I am embarassed that so much fuss has been given over this subject. How about finding those laid-off Ford employees some jobs? The question should not be “should our city promote the tattoo lifestyle,” but, instead, “should our city promote the spread of blood-borne pathogens by not leagalizing and regulating tattoo artists”?
It’s not the end of the world, Norfolk, not like, say, gambling.. or gay marriage.