House Bill 449 amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning the practice of optometry, introducing significant changes to definitions, licensure, and practice standards. Notably, the bill adds new definitions such as "Advertisement" and "Optometrist certified in ophthalmic procedures," which clarify the scope of practice for certified optometrists. It revises the membership requirements for the Board of Optometry to ensure a majority of its members are actively practicing certified optometrists. The bill also establishes new certification requirements for optometrists wishing to administer ocular pharmaceutical agents, mandating the completion of a specific course and examination, with these requirements becoming effective for all applicants after July 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill removes previous prohibitions on certain procedures, allowing certified optometrists to perform ophthalmic procedures and remove superficial foreign bodies. It introduces a "negative formulary" of ocular pharmaceutical agents that certified optometrists cannot prescribe or administer, and establishes a statutory formulary for oral ocular pharmaceutical agents that cannot be altered without FDA intervention. The bill also clarifies the licensure process, requiring background screening and proof of education in pharmacology, and mandates that health maintenance policies provide coverage for services rendered by licensed optometrists. Overall, HB 449 aims to modernize the practice of optometry in Florida, enhancing the capabilities of certified optometrists while ensuring patient safety and regulatory compliance.

Statutes affected:
H 449 Filed: 463.002, 463.005, 463.0055, 463.006, 463.009, 641.31