Bill > HB1267

This bill updates North Dakota's optometry licensure laws, making several key changes. The bill modifies definitions related to optometry, expanding the understanding of optometric services to include telemedicine and clarifying what constitutes practicing optometry. It extends the time period for student interns from three to six months after graduation and changes the board's administrative terminology from "secretary" to "executive director". The bill establishes new provisions for telemedicine in optometry, requiring that the initial patient relationship be established through a physical eye examination in-state, and mandating informed consent for telemedicine services which includes details about the technology used. The legislation also empowers the board to establish various fees by rule, including application, license, renewal, and continuing education fees. Additionally, the bill removes previous requirements for consultation with physicians for certain eye conditions and streamlines the licensing process for optometrists, while maintaining standards of professional practice and patient care.

Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1267.html