House approves second reading of bill allowing students to carry and apply sunscreen with permission

The House heard a second‑reading presentation of S.187, an act to allow students to possess and apply sunscreen at school so long as they have a parent's or guardian's written permission.

The member reporting for the House education committee said Vermont has a high per‑capita rate of melanoma and noted that sunscreen is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which factored into committee deliberations. Under the bill, school employees would not be required to assist with or supervise application, and schools and personnel would have immunity for good‑faith actions. The committee made no changes to the bill as received from the Senate and set the effective date of July 1, 2024.

The House took a voice vote and the presiding officer announced that third reading was ordered.