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Bill > SB186
MD SB186
MD SB186State Board of Examiners in Optometry - Examination Requirements and Time Period for Inactive Status
summary
Introduced
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
In Committee
02/13/2026
02/13/2026
Crossed Over
02/12/2026
02/12/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Clarifying that applicants for licensure as an optometrist and certain applicants for reinstatement are required to pass all sections of each part of a licensure examination; repealing the requirement that the State Board of Examiners in Optometry give examinations to licensure applicants; prohibiting the Board from placing a licensee on inactive status for more than 6 consecutive years; etc.
AI Summary
This bill clarifies that applicants for an optometrist license and those seeking to reactivate their license must pass all parts of a required examination, and it removes the previous requirement for the State Board of Examiners in Optometry (the Board) to administer these exams, instead stating the Board will determine what examinations are required. Additionally, the bill prohibits the Board from placing a licensee on inactive status for more than six consecutive years, which is a status that allows a licensed professional to temporarily pause their practice without fully surrendering their license.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance, Education, Health and Social Services
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred Health (on 02/13/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0186?ys=2026RS |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/bills/sb/sb0186t.pdf |
| Vote Image | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/votes_comm/sb0186_fin.pdf |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/bills/sb/sb0186f.pdf |
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