NJ Legislator Pushes to Allow Sunscreen in Schools

A new bill referred to New Jersey’s Assembly Education Committee would make the Garden State the 29th to pass legislation allowing direct access to sunscreen in schools, according to Insider NJ.

Sunscreen is classified by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an over-the-counter drug and thus requires a doctor’s note to be used in school in New Jersey and several other states. Bill A1028, introduced by Assembly Republican Budget Officer Nancy Munoz and inspired by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery’s SUNucate initiative, would require school districts to adopt a policy permitting all students, regardless of medical documentation, to use sunscreen and sun-protective clothing while they are outdoors or at school-sponsored activities.

“Children need protection during the entire day, including recess, sports, and outside activities. Sunscreen, along with protective clothing and shade, are the most effective ways to protect children from the risk of getting skin cancer,” Munoz, a former nurse, told Insider NJ. “However, it is not readily accessible at schools without a doctor’s note because the Food and Drug Administration classifies it as an over-the-counter drug.”