2019 -- H 5118

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2019

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A N   A C T

RELATING TO EDUCATION -- HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PUPILS

     Introduced By: Representatives Bennett, Handy, Kennedy, Abney, and McNamara

     Date Introduced: January 11, 2019

     Referred To: House Health, Education & Welfare

     It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

     SECTION 1. Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws entitled "Health and Safety of Pupils" is

hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

     16-21-37. Sun safety.

     (a) Any person including, but not limited to, students, parents or school personnel may

possess and use a topical sunscreen product without a physician's note or prescription while on

school property or at a school-related event, or activity, to avoid overexposure to the sun, if the

product is regulated by the Federal Food and Drug Administration for over-the-counter use.

     (b) For the purposes of this section only, sunscreen is not to be considered an over-the-

counter medication.

     (c) Nothing in this section requires school personnel to assist pupils in applying

sunscreen. Nothing in this section shall make the school district or its personnel liable for any

damages under this section.

     (d) The school district may encourage schools to educate pupils on sun safety

precautions.

     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

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EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO EDUCATION -- HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PUPILS

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     This act would allow students in public schools to possess and use sunscreen.

     This act would take effect upon passage.

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