Those people who spent 11 years trying to get tattooing legalized in South Carolina must have breathed a long sigh of relief late last week when Gov. Mark Sanford signed a bill making the industry legal.

It's hard to understand why there was such strong opposition to an activity that harms no one. Whether we or legislators like or don't like the idea of the permanent body decorations is irrelevant. Adults should be free to make up their own minds on this issue.

The law requires that health regulations be put in place to protect the public. Minors cannot get a tattoo, and tattoo businesses must get a parent's permission before tattooing anyone 18 to 21. Myrtle Beach has already passed an ordinance allowing tattooing parlors only in certain areas.

Finally, South Carolina will no longer be one of only two nanny states that denies residents the right to get tattooed legally. We should be proud to let Oklahoma stand alone with that honor.