Vermont is “SUNucated”
May 07 2024 - 3:34PM
Vermont children will now be able to possess and utilize sunscreen
on school property and at school-sponsored events or activities
with the written permission of a parent or guardian. Because of
this act, students will no longer need a medical provider’s note, a
prescription or be required to store sunscreen in a specific
location to use it. Governor Phil Scott signed into law a version
of ASDSA’s SUNucate model legislation, making Vermont the 28th
state (29th including the District of Columbia) to be “SUNucated.”
The SUNucate initiative was developed by the American Society
for Dermatologic Surgery Association (ASDSA) to address barriers to
sunscreen use at schools and school-sponsored events and to promote
sun-safe behaviors. The law becomes effective July 1 in Vermont.
“I congratulate Vermont on passing this important public health
law for their students. Creating sun-safe behaviors early in life,
like sunscreen use, is essential to preventing skin cancer,” said
ASDSA President Seth L. Matarasso, MD. “ASDSA looks forward to
continuing to collaborate with its partners across the nation to
advocate for SUNucate legislation. We hope this model bill is
adopted by all states.”
The need for SUNucate arose after concerns were raised by ASDSA
members (board certified dermatologists) that schools were not
allowing sunscreen to be brought to school. Sunscreens are
regulated as over-the-counter drugs under the Federal Food, Drug
and Cosmetic Act, making them subject to school bans. To find more
information on SUNucate visit asds.net/SUNucate.
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About the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Association (ASDSA)
With a membership of 6,400+ physicians, ASDSA is a 501(c)(6)
association, dedicated to patient safety and advocacy on behalf of
dermatologic surgeons and their patients. For more information,
visit asds.net/ASDSA.
Follow @ASDSAdvocacy on Facebook, X (formerly
Twitter), Instagram and Threads!
Kristin Hellquist
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association
847-956-9144
khellquist@asds.net