Some Minnesota lawmakers want to let students apply sunscreen with impunity.
A bill pending at the Legislature would allow students to apply sun protection without written permission from a doctor. Many Minnesota schools currently require a note before a student can use sunscreen because it is considered an over-the-counter drug by the FDA.
State Rep. Kelly Morrison, DFL-Deephaven, who is also a physician told members of the House education committee that is too big of a barrier for many students. Morrison is chief sponsor of legislation supported by the Minnesota Dermatology Society to have Minnesota join 18 other states that have made it easier for students to protect their skin at school.
“We know that regular use of sunscreen at a young age is a critical component of skin cancer prevention and can significantly reduce lifetime risk of developing skin cancer,” said Dr. Kristen Hook, a University of Minnesota professor in pediatric dermatology and president of the dermatology society.
“This is important because Minnesota has the highest rates of melanoma in the Midwest,” Hook said. She added that nine other states are currently considering similar legislation.
Dr. Lynda S. Kauls, the society’s treasurer and secretary, said requiring a doctor’s note is burdensome for parents and physicians and makes it difficult for some students to get the permission they need.
“This bill would reduce these unneeded permission slips. We feel like it is a really simple policy proposal and we support it wholeheartedly,” Kauls said.
Kauls and Hook said that national dermatology groups have lobbied the FDA to remove sunscreen from the over-the-counter drug category, but have been unsuccessful. They added in their work as dermatologists they have seen almost no adverse reactions to children’s sunscreen.
Morrison noted that her bill would not require schools to provide or apply sunscreen. The legislation may be included in a larger education policy and funding bill crafted later this legislative session.