English Bill to Protect Students from the Sun
HARRISBURG - In a commonsense measure, the House unanimously endorsed legislation authored by Rep. Hal English (Allegheny) that would allow students to apply sunscreen and use other sun-protective clothing during school hours or school-sponsored activities.
“Under current state law, only a school nurse can administer sunscreen because it is considered an over-the-counter medication by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA),” said English. “As a result, students must have a doctor’s order, not just their parent’s permission, and the sunscreen must be administered by a nurse.”
Students are not currently permitted to bring sunscreen to school and apply it themselves.
House Bill 1228 would specifically allow students, during school hours or at a school-sponsored activity, to apply a topical sunscreen product without a physician’s note or prescription if the product is approved by the FDA for over-the-counter use.
“This bill would also allow other sun-protective clothing, including but not limited to hats, for outdoor use, provided that the items still follow a school’s dress code,” added English.
The legislation now moves to the state Senate.
Representative Hal English
30th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Mike Madry
717.260.6587
mmadry@pahousegop.com
RepEnglish.com /
Facebook.com/RepEnglish