Connecticut parents are asking state lawmakers to pass legislation allowing their children to self-apply sunscreen before they participate in recess and other outdoor activities.
Parents say elementary school students are currently required to have a school nurse apply sunscreen before they go outside. They say students often skip sunscreen so they don't miss out on recess, putting them at risk for skin cancer.
The General Assembly's Public Health Committee will hear testimony Monday on a bill allowing any student who is 8 years old or older to self-apply over-the-counter sunscreen while in school before they engage in an outdoor activity.
The bill requires a student's parent or guardian to provide written authorization to the school nurse.
The bill also requires local school boards to adopt policies concerning self-application of sunscreen.
