Bill > SB129

This bill revises the law governing the practice of optometry. Key provisions include: - Expanding the definition of the "practice of optometry" to include additional procedures and treatments, such as certain injections, incisions, removals, suturing, and laser surgeries, subject to the adoption of rules by the State Vision Professionals Board regarding required training and infection control practices. - Authorizing licensed optometrists to use devices that deliver therapeutic pharmaceutical agents and to administer certain procedures previously restricted to physicians. - Updating requirements for obtaining and renewing a certificate of licensure to practice optometry, including criminal background check provisions. - Making various other changes to the laws regulating the practice of optometry, including modifying disciplinary procedures, reporting requirements, and continuing education standards. The bill also amends the versions of several existing statutory sections that are scheduled to take effect on December 29, 2023, to continue the changes made by the bill on and after that date.