Signed by Governor Steve Beshear

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass bill that allows the Kentucky Board of Optometric Examiners to regulate the classification and practice of optometrists.

Highlights:

• Establishes that the board shall have the sole authority to determine what constitutes the practice of optometry (Sec. 2).

• Specifies that the practice of optometry includes the examination, diagnosis and treatment of the human eye and its appendages including (Sec. 1):
• Correcting and relieving ocular abnormalities;
• Determining eye health;
• Prescribing and adapting lenses;
• Prescribing Eye glasses and Contacts; and
• Employing vision therapy.

• Establishes that an optometrist may not administer drugs, prescribe drugs, or perform laser or non-laser surgery unless licensed by the board (Sec. 2).

• Establishes that in a public health emergency, the Commissioner of Health may authorize therapeutically licensed optometrists to administer inoculation (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass bill that allows the Kentucky Board of Optometric Examiners to regulate the classification and practice of optometrists.

Highlights:

• Establishes that the board shall have the sole authority to determine what constitutes the practice of optometry (Sec. 2).

• Specifies that the practice of optometry includes the examination, diagnosis and treatment of the human eye and its appendages including (Sec. 1):
• Correcting and relieving ocular abnormalities;
• Determining eye health;
• Prescribing and adapting lenses;
• Prescribing Eye glasses and Contacts; and
• Employing vision therapy.

• Establishes that an optometrist may not administer drugs, prescribe drugs, or perform laser or non-laser surgery unless licensed by the board (Sec. 2).

• Establishes that in a public health emergency, the Commissioner of Health may authorize therapeutically licensed optometrists to administer inoculation (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text