79R8207 BDH-D

By:  Dawson                                                       H.B. No. 2464



A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to requiring skin cancer prevention instruction in public 
schools. 
	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:                        
	SECTION 1.  Section 28.002, Education Code, is amended by 
adding Subsection (k-1) to read as follows:
	(k-1)  The State Board of Education, in consultation with the 
Department of State Health Services, shall develop a skin cancer 
prevention program that a school district shall use as part of the 
health curriculum under Subsection (a)(2)(B).  The program must 
include:
		(1)  facts and statistics regarding the negative 
effects of exposure to ultraviolet radiation through tanning and 
sunburn;
		(2)  a comprehensive strategy to reduce the risk of 
skin cancer; and 
		(3)  instruction on accessing updated information and 
educational resources on skin cancer from the Department of State 
Health Services and other appropriate entities.
	SECTION 2.  (a) Not later than May 1, 2006, the State Board 
of Education shall develop a skin cancer prevention program as 
provided by Section 28.002(k-1), Education Code, as added by this 
Act.
	(b)  A school district shall use the skin cancer prevention 
program developed by the State Board of Education as provided by 
Section 28.002(k-1), Education Code, as added by this Act, 
beginning with the 2006-2007 school year.
	SECTION 3.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2005.