Arkansas

SUNucate

Current Status: Enacted

Current Law

SUNucate legislation was enacted in 2019, providing students access to sunscreen and allowing school personnel to assist with application under certain circumstances. 2019: HB 1167 enacted. Students may possess and use sunscreen at school and school events. Staff may assist with parental/guardian permission but are not required. No liability for staff. No minimum age; sun-safe clothing/hats not specifically addressed.

Comparison to the SUNucate

Arkansas has adopted core SUNucate concepts, including student possession/use; staff assistance. 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

Adopt the full SUNucate model, including student possession and self-application of sunscreen; staff assistance with parental permission; youth camp protections; sun-protective clothing; hats and sunglasses; sun-safe education; and a sunscreen sales-tax exemption.

Legislative History

HB 1167 (2019) - Enacted

Sources

Arkansas Code § 6-18-714 (Effective: 2/28/2019)

Medical Spa Safety Act

Current Law

Arkansas does not have any state laws pertaining to medical spas. An Arkansas State Board of Nursing Position Statement declares aesthetic procedures should be prescribed by a physician or APRN with prescriptive authority. An RN may be delegated these tasks if APRN or physician is available in person or through electronic communications.

Opportunities for Improvement

Since there are no laws in place, Arkansas 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

Arkansas State Board of Nursing Position Statement on the Role of the Licensed Nurse in the Practice of Aesthetics