Alabama

SUNucate

Current Status: Enacted

Current Law

SUNucate legislation was enacted in 2017, allowing students to possess and use sunscreen at school without it being treated as medication. 2017: SB 63 enacted, allowing students to possess and use sunscreen at school and school events. Parental authorization required for staff assistance. Earlier attempt (HB 147) failed. Law covers both public and non-public schools. No minimum age; sun-safe clothing/hats not specifically addressed.

Comparison to SUNucate

Alabama has adopted core SUNucate concepts, including student possession/use of sunscreen; staff assistance with application. The state does not yet fully mirror the model bill where additional provisions remain available, such as youth camp protections, sun-protective clothing, hats and sunglasses, sun-safe education, or a sunscreen sales-tax exemption.

Opportunities for Improvement

Youth camp protections; sun-protective clothing; hats/sunglasses; sun-safe education; sales-tax exemption

Legislative History

HB 147 (2017) - Failed

SB 63 (2017) - Enacted

Sources

Act #2017-278 (Effective: 5/16/2017)

Medical Spa Safety Act

Current Law

Alabama does not have any state laws pertaining to medical spas. However, the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners released guidance stating medical spas must have a physician serving as a medical director. Neurotoxins and dermal fillers are considered the practice of medicine and can only be injected in medical settings and performed by a physician, physician assistant, or APRN. These procedures cannot be further delegated to an RN or anyone other than a physician, PA, or APRN.

Opportunities for Improvement

Since there are no laws in place, Alabama would benefit from enacting the Medical Spa Safety Act, which would explicitly regulate medical spas, prevent conflicting Board opinions, and reduce confusion for patients and practitioners.

Sources

Alabama Board of Medical Examiners Statement on Request for APPs to Inject Neuromodulators and Dermal Fillers