Legal
Minnesota passes OD scope of practice expansion legislation
First new scope update in over two decades permits optometrists to administer some in-office injections and removes restrictions on several prescribing capabilities.
Legal
Optometry excluded in new DC scope of practice legislation
Bill originally proposed allowing ODs to prescribe and administer controlled substances as well as initiate glaucoma treatment without consulting a patient’s primary physician.
Legal
California legislators kill OD bill seeking increased scope of practice (again)
Legislation would have enabled optometrists to perform advanced procedures.
Legal
DC bill seeks to add controlled substances to OD scope of practice
A public hearing is scheduled for next week to discuss expanding one of the most restrictive legislations in the country.
Research
Is there a link between optometric scope expansion and malpractice risk?
Recent analysis suggests that OD malpractice payments remain relatively uncommon, even in states with expanded procedural authority.
Legal
Vermont passes bill authorizing optometric laser procedures
Effective in 2028, legislation permits several in-office ophthalmic laser surgeries—plus establishes training, education, and State Board requirements.
Legal
Kansas passes optometry scope of expansion bill for laser procedures
H.B. 2227 permits ODs to perform ophthalmic surgeries such as laser capsulotomy and trabeculoplasty; requires new training and credentialing standards.
Legal
West Virginia OD bill to permit use of ophthalmic lasers
Effective July 9, Senate Bill 565 will expand optometrists’ scope of practice to enable three specific in-office procedures.
Legal
Montana passes OD scope expansion for laser procedures
Set to take effect on July 1, H.B. 218 permits optometrists to perform in-office laser and surgical procedures across the state.
Legal
South Dakota governor signs optometric scope of expansion bill
Legislation permits ODs to perform certain advanced procedures; resolves IPL dispute.
Legal
New Iowa legislation grants ODs access to anesthesia injections
An update to the state's scope of practice went into effect July 1.
Legal
New Mexico governor vetoes optometric scope of expansion bill
Legislation proposed permitting in-state-practicing optometrists to perform SLT and YAG capsulotomy; potential future bill may still be considered.
Events