New model legislation from American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association (ASDSA) provides state governments with a framework to permit the use of sunscreens in school and camp settings.

The ASDSA model legislation – called SUNucate/Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer and Excessive UV Exposure in Children Act –coincides with Don’t Fry Day, an educational initiative by the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention (NCSCP).

The model bill allows students to possess and use topical sunscreen products while on school property, at a school-sponsored event or youth camp without a physician’s note or prescription if the product is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for over-the-counter use.

The bill also encourages the use of sun-protective clothing, including hats, and calls for states to look at ways to best educate children on the dangers of skin cancer.

Only California, Oregon and Texas have laws that permit the use of sunscreen in schools without a prescription. Arizona implemented a law in 2005 that requires all public schools to incorporate skin cancer prevention instruction into existing curricula.