Health professionals, parents and industry groups urged the Joint Committee on Education to pass bills that would allow children to carry and apply sunscreen at school without requiring a physician’s prescription or specific nurse authorization.

Supporters cited public‑health authorities and research showing sunscreen prevents sunburn and reduces long‑term skin‑cancer risk. Deborah Girard of Impact Melanoma and Dr. Abigail Waldman, a Brigham and Women’s dermatologist, noted that even a single blistering sunburn in childhood doubles melanoma risk later in life and warned that outdoor school activities in late spring can expose children to high UV levels.

Operational argument: Testimony recommended non‑aerosol formulations, parental permission, and easy‑to‑deploy stations. Trade groups cited a University of Massachusetts Amherst study finding state laws permitting student sunscreen use increase sunscreen use without negative consequences.

Opposition and balance: No strong opposition appeared at the hearing; trade groups, dermatology nurses and nonprofit advocates all urged passage.

Next steps: Committee received multiple written and oral endorsements and was asked to report the bills (S334, H600, H619) favorably to remove administrative barriers to basic sun protection for students.