New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB432

Introduced

11/21/25

Refer

11/21/25

Report Pass

2/3/26

Engrossed

2/26/26

Refer

2/26/26

Report DNP

5/6/26

Caption

Authorizing the application of sunscreen in schools and camps without a licensed health care provider's note or prescription and establishing a skin cancer prevention education program.

Impact

The bill not only permits self-application of sunscreen but also the application of sunscreen by school and camp personnel with parental permission. This provision ensures that all children, regardless of their ability to apply sunscreen independently, have access to necessary sun protection. Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a skin cancer prevention education program in public schools, which aims to educate students on the dangers of UV radiation and effective sun protection strategies. This educational aspect aims to foster a culture of sun safety among young people.

Summary

Senate Bill 432 aims to enhance skin cancer prevention efforts by allowing children to use sunscreen in schools and camps without the need for a licensed health care provider's note or prescription. This legislation addresses the barriers reported by schools that previously prevented students from bringing or using sunscreen due to concerns about medication bans and the subsequent legal ramifications. The bill seeks to empower children to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, thus potentially decreasing the risk of skin cancer linked to excessive sun exposure.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from various legislative sponsors and is seen as a necessary public health measure, potential points of contention could arise concerning the implementation of parental consent procedures and the modification of existing school policies on dress codes and sunscreen use. Concerns about the administrative burden placed on school personnel to manage sunscreen application consent and the need for schools to possibly adapt their policies to allow sun-protective clothing could also arise. Additionally, ensuring adequate liability protection for staff who help with sunscreen application might require significant procedural changes in schools and camps.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB677

Relative to the possession and use of epinephrine at recreation camps, schools, and institutions of higher education.

NH SB39

Relative to establishing an alternative driver education program.

NH SB111

Authorizing a reliability indexing credit pilot program.

NH HB653

Establishing a pilot program within the department of education to implement alternatives to restraint and seclusion of students.

NH SB98

Extending the donations to regional career and technical education center programs.

NH SB101

Authorizing parents to enroll their children in any public school in the state.

NH SB292

Relative to aid to school districts for the cost of special education.

NH SB238

Establishing the adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) prevention and treatment program and making an appropriation to the department of health and human services for this purpose.

NH HB712

Limiting breast surgeries for minors, relative to residential care and health facility licensing, and relative to the collection and reporting of abortion statistics by health care providers and medical facilities.

NH SB288

Establishing an advisory council on the system of care for healthy aging in New Hampshire.