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SD 280

An Act relative to youth skin health

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr and 1 co-sponsor

Permits students, parents, and staff to possess and use FDA-OTC sunscreen at school without a doctor's note, boosting sun protection and equity with minimal admin burden.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 280

Summary: Senate Docket No. 280 – An Act relative to youth skin health

Purpose and intent

This bill seeks to promote sun safety for students by removing barriers to using topical sunscreen in school settings. It would authorize possession and use of sunscreen by students, parents, and school personnel on school property or at school-related events without the need for a physician’s note or prescription, provided the product is FDA-regulated for over-the-counter (OTC) use. The measure clarifies that sunscreen is not to be treated as an OTC medication. It also encourages, but does not require, school districts to educate students about sun safety.

Key provisions

  • Additions to law: Chapter 71 of the Massachusetts General Laws would be amended by adding a new Section 100 after existing Section 99.
  • Authorization to use sunscreen: Any person, including students, parents, or school personnel, may possess and use a topical sunscreen product on school property or at a school-related event to prevent sun overexposure.
  • Regulatory condition: The sunscreen must be regulated by the FDA for OTC use.
  • Status of sunscreen: For the purposes of this section, sunscreen is not considered an OTC medication.
  • Role of school staff: Nothing in the section requires school personnel to assist students in applying sunscreen.
  • Education: School districts may encourage school sites to educate pupils about sun safety precautions.

Who is affected

  • Students attending Massachusetts schools.
  • Parents and guardians.
  • School personnel and staff.
  • School districts and administrators implementing health policies.
  • Vendors and families using FDA-regulated OTC sunscreen products.

Implementation and timeline

  • Filed: January 10, 2025.
  • Introduced: February 27, 2025.
  • Legislative actions: Referred to the Committee on Education on February 27, 2025; House concurred on February 27, 2025.
  • Related legislation: Similar matter previously filed in the 2023-2024 session (Senate No. 258).

Potential impact

  • Public health and safety: Expected reduction in sunburn risk and long-term skin damage among youth by facilitating easy access to sunscreen at school events and during school hours.
  • Practical considerations: Schools may need to provide guidance on storage, disposal, and ensuring products are FDA-regulated OTC; policies may address allergy concerns and student responsibility for self-application.
  • Equity and accessibility: Ensures all students have the opportunity to use sunscreen during outdoor activities, regardless of medical notes or prescriptions.

Overall, the bill aims to normalize and streamline sun protection for students within the school environment, with minimal administrative burden on schools and without mandating staff to apply sunscreen.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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