HB 22-1233

House Bill 22-1233 extends the regulation of optometry in Colorado for another 11 years until September 1, 2033. It also expands what treatments and procedures optometrists can perform, requires them to report if they are unable to treat patients safely, and updates licensing requirements by allowing different standardized exams for certification. This bill has been signed into law, meaning its provisions are now in effect.

Official Summary

The act implements the recommendations of the department of regulatory agencies (department), as specified in the department's sunset review of the state board of optometry (board), with modifications, by: Continuing the board and the regulation of optometry for 11 years, until September 1, 2033; Adding certain treatments and procedures to the scope of the practice of optometry; Removing the exemption for optometrists from the requirement to notify the board in the event that the optometrist is unable to treat patients with reasonable skill and safety; Removing references to the "National Board of Examiners in Optometry" and clarifying that the board may designate any national standardized examination that tests the applicant's ability to practice optometry as a requirement for licensure; and Requiring an optometrist licensed by the board to complete certain education, examination, and reporting requirements to perform laser procedures or treat ocular adnexa.(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

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