INTERVIEW – MATT JESSUP — better known as “Fatty,” owner of Fatty’s Tattoos and Piercings in D.C.

DC tattoo artists: proposed regulations are ‘micromanaging’ attempt to ‘marginalize.’ Tattoo artists speak out about proposed D.C. regulations. (WTOP) — WASHINGTON — Tattoo artists in the District of Columbia are upset about new regulations proposed by the Department of Health, which some fear will make their businesses illegal. “The D.C. Department of Health is trying to marginalize the tattooed,” said Paul Roe, owner of BritishInk, in Northeast Washington. Roe is speaking out against proposed regulations which include a provision that would require any tattoo shop in the city to buy all equipment and supplies from companies that are registered in the District. He said right now there are no companies registered in the District, and he questions where shops will get their supplies if the measures are adopted. “What is being requested here is unheard of in any other jurisdiction or state in the whole country,” said Matt Jessup, better known as “Fatty,” owner of Fatty’s Tattoos and Piercings in D.C.