Bill > S1164

This bill establishes a special commission of 13 members, appointed by the governor, to assess the Commonwealth's eye care and vision health needs, with representation from various medical and public health organizations, including the New England College of Optometry, the Massachusetts Society of Optometrists, the Massachusetts Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons, the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, Inc., the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, the Massachusetts Public Health Association, the Executive Office of Education, the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (which will also chair the commission). The commission's responsibilities include reporting on current and future eye care needs, identifying access pathways and unmet needs, particularly in urban and rural areas and for children and seniors, and recommending legislation, programs, and resources to improve access to services. The commission is to organize within 120 days of a majority of members being appointed, can utilize state, county, or municipal employees for assistance, and will receive staff support from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. Finally, the commission must report its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the General Court by December 31, 2016.