Overview: SB 432, authorizing the application of sunscreen in schools and camps without a doctor's note or prescription and establishing a skin cancer prevention education program, Hearing: 01/20/2026, Map Room, SL, 09:30 am; SC 46, Introduced: February 18, 2025
Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this bill is to improve access to sunscreen for students in schools and camps, as well as to promote skin cancer prevention education. The legislation aims to address the barriers that currently exist for students to use sunscreen, which can contribute to increased risk of sun-related skin damage and cancer.
Key Provisions:
- Allows students to possess and use over-the-counter sunscreen at school and in camp settings without requiring a doctor's note or prescription
- Directs the state Department of Health to develop and implement a comprehensive skin cancer prevention education program for schools and camps
- Requires schools and camps to provide adequate time and space for students to apply sunscreen before outdoor activities
- Encourages schools and camps to stock and provide sunscreen for student use, with the option to recoup costs through nominal fees
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Students, who will have improved access to sun protection and increased awareness of skin cancer prevention
- Parents and guardians, who will no longer need to obtain a doctor's note for their children to use sunscreen at school or camp
- Schools and camps, which will need to update their policies and procedures to accommodate the new sunscreen requirements
- The state Department of Health, which will be responsible for developing and implementing the skin cancer prevention education program
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill is currently scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Committee on January 20, 2026. If it passes the committee, it will then move to the full Senate for consideration. The timeline for potential enactment remains uncertain at this stage.
