Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill H0538

Introduced
1/3/24  

Caption

An act relating to student application of sunscreen and car seat safety

Impact

In addition to the provisions regarding sunscreen, H0538 amends existing car seat safety laws. It specifies that all occupants under the age of 18 must be properly restrained in federally approved child passenger restraint systems when traveling in a vehicle. The bill outlines requirements for how children should be restrained based on their age and weight, thereby reinforcing measures intended to reduce the risk of injury in the event of a motor vehicle accident. The proposed changes reflect a commitment to enhance child passenger safety and ensure compliance with federal safety regulations.

Overall

Overall, H0538 seeks to address important health and safety concerns while acknowledging parental rights and responsibilities. By enhancing the ability of students to protect themselves from the sun and improving child restraint practices in vehicles, the bill promotes a proactive approach to public health and welfare. Its comprehensive nature demonstrates a legislative intent to ensure children’s safety in both educational environments and transportation settings, though the implementation and enforcement of these provisions will require careful consideration.

Summary

House Bill H0538 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing student safety while also promoting public health, specifically regarding sunscreen application at schools and child restraint systems in vehicles. The bill allows students to possess and apply topical, non-aerosolized sunscreen at school upon receiving written authorization from a parent or guardian. This measure is intended to prevent skin damage from ultraviolet exposure without the need for a medical provider's note, making it easier for students to protect themselves during outdoor activities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding H0538 involve the balance between school autonomy and the need for health and safety regulations. Some may argue that requiring written parental authorization could create barriers for students who may not have access to such documentation. Furthermore, the bill's implementation may raise discussions about the responsibilities of school personnel in administering health-related assistance to students. Similar debates may arise concerning the enforcement of car seat regulations and potential penalties for non-compliance, which could be viewed differently by various stakeholders, including parents, educators, and law enforcement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT S0187

An act relating to student application of sunscreen

VT HB4511

Vehicles: equipment; child restraint safety seats; require positioning of car seats to depend on weight of child, and make other revisions. Amends secs. 710d & 710e of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.710d & 257.710e). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4512'23

VT S0309

An act relating to miscellaneous changes to laws related to the Department of Motor Vehicles, motor vehicles, and vessels

VT HB5038

Relating to motor vehicle windshield sunscreening devices.

VT HB4121

Relating to motor vehicle windshield sunscreening devices.

VT S0064

An act relating to miscellaneous changes related to vehicles, infrastructure, and transportation planning

VT SB76

Provides relative to child safety seats. (8/1/19)

VT HB2357

Relating To Sunscreens.

VT SB2850

Relating To Sunscreens.

VT S258

Relative to the availability of sunscreen for students

Similar Bills

VT S0187

An act relating to student application of sunscreen

NJ S4658

Eliminates sales tax on baby necessities and sunscreen.

NJ A5806

Eliminates sales tax on baby necessities and sunscreen.

HI SB840

Relating To Environmental Protection.

CA AJR16

Sunscreen: ingredients and filters.

HI SB748

Relating To Environmental Protection.

HI SB748

Relating To Environmental Protection.

SC H3151

Sunscreen devices