Medical groups, dermatologists and parents push to declassify sunscreen as OTC medication in schools
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Summary
Dermatologists, public‑health advocates and trade groups testified for bills to allow students to carry and apply sunscreen at school without a physician’s note, citing prevention of childhood sun damage and studies showing higher sunscreen use where such laws exist.
Health professionals, parents and industry groups urged the Joint Committee on Education to pass bills that would allow children to carry and apply sunscreen at school without requiring a physician’s prescription or specific nurse authorization.
Supporters cited public‑health authorities and research showing sunscreen prevents sunburn and reduces long‑term skin‑cancer risk. Deborah Girard of Impact Melanoma and Dr. Abigail Waldman, a Brigham and Women’s dermatologist, noted that even a single blistering sunburn in childhood doubles melanoma risk later in life and warned that outdoor school activities in late spring can expose children to high UV levels.
Operational argument: Testimony recommended non‑aerosol formulations, parental permission, and easy‑to‑deploy stations. Trade groups cited a University of Massachusetts Amherst study finding state laws permitting student sunscreen use increase sunscreen use without negative consequences.
Opposition and balance: No strong opposition appeared at the hearing; trade groups, dermatology nurses and nonprofit advocates all urged passage.
Next steps: Committee received multiple written and oral endorsements and was asked to report the bills (S334, H600, H619) favorably to remove administrative barriers to basic sun protection for students.