House and Senate negotiators reached a compromise Thursday that would end South Carolina’s ban on tattooing, giving up its place as one of only two states that outlaw the procedure.

• Many states outlawed tattooing in the 1960s, but South Carolina and Oklahoma are the only states to continue the ban.

• A conference committee agreed on a compromise bill Thursday lifting the state’s ban on tattooing. It passed the House and Senate just hours later and soon will be on its way to Gov. Mark Sanford, who has said he would sign the bill as long as it protects public safety.

• The bill would outlaw tattoos for anyone under 18 and requires a parent’s permission for 18- to 21-year-olds. It also bans tattooing the face, neck and head.

• Tattoo artists would have to use disposable needles and follow local zoning laws, such as opening businesses away from churches and schools. A tattoo parlor also would need a license before opening.

• Ron White soon should be able to do what he has always wanted — give someone a tattoo in South Carolina without breaking the law.

• “It’s hard to believe I’ve been fighting this since the mid-90s,” said White, who was once fined and sentenced to four years’ probation when he protested the ban by tattooing someone on television.

• White has sued the state in federal court over the ban but said he would drop the suit if the tattooing is made legal.

• The last hurdle for the bill came when the conference committee deleted a part of the House bill that would give local governments more control.

• White and other supporters worried that might kill the bill. But the House approved it 62-29 shortly before adjourning, and the Senate followed with a voice vote a few minutes later.

• “I’m looking forward to finally opening up a tattoo parlor in South Carolina,” White said. His first client is going to be one of his lawyers. White plans to give him a tattoo of a palmetto tree and the state flag.