SAN ANTONIO--Janet Botello and her husband own Arte Por Vida tattoo shop, and have been in business for over 14 years.
"It think the bigger issue is when a license expires there's nobody checking to see if that business had ceased, " said Botello,
According to the Department of State Health Services there are 89 licensed tattoo shops in town. The agency also told News 4 WOAI 57 shops have an expired license.
While some shops may have shut down, that's not the case for all of them.
A DSHS spokesperson said there are not enough investigators to make sure every tattoo shop is up to date with its license.
Botello said that's why is so easy for a business without a license to keep operating.
"Anybody can go to a tattoo shop that sells supplies and they can buy everything they need from A to Z and do a tattoo in their living room 45 minutes later, " said Botello.
If you log onto the website Craigslist you'll find ads advertising tattoos. "He tattoos at your place, i.e, your kitchen, your living room, " replied Botello.
Botello went on to say not only is that illegal, but there's a huge health and safety issue to consider. "Everything should be wiped down, clear, and clean, " added Botello.
Botello said an unsanitary place where someone is getting a tattoo could but their health in jeopardy. She also says it's hurting the shops who are doing it right. "It's killing the industry, there are still people that are sticklers for the rules, " added Botello.
The Department of State Health Services says the public can report an unlicensed shop and the agency will launch an investigation.
You can contact the DSHS at (512) 834-6755
Botello said she plans to get a group together and head to Austin to talk to lawmakers about this issue.
