The bill CS/CS/HB 449 amends Florida's optometry laws to modernize the practice and enhance the scope of certified optometrists. It introduces the term "certified optometric physician," which designates licensed practitioners authorized to administer and prescribe ocular pharmaceutical agents. A new category of optometrists certified in ophthalmic procedures is established, allowing them to perform specific procedures under defined conditions. The bill mandates that certified optometrists complete a background screening and pass a specified course and examination for licensure, with the board responsible for determining the content and grading criteria. Additionally, it creates a negative formulary listing agents that certified optometrists cannot prescribe and expands the duties of nonlicensed supportive personnel under indirect supervision.

Key amendments include the removal of the State Surgeon General's authority to challenge board rules and the requirement for certified optometrists to complete a specific course and examination for licensure renewal. The bill clarifies procedures excluded from the optometry practice scope, such as certain eye surgeries, and allows certified optometrists to remove superficial foreign bodies from the eye. It also establishes financial responsibility requirements for optometrists, ensuring they can cover claims arising from their practice before obtaining or renewing their licenses. These changes aim to enhance the capabilities of optometrists while ensuring patient safety and proper oversight, with the new regulations set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 449 Filed: 463.002, 463.005, 463.0055, 463.006, 463.009, 641.31
H 449 c1: 463.002, 463.005, 463.0055, 463.006, 463.009, 641.31
H 449 c2: 463.002, 463.005, 463.0055, 463.006, 463.009, 641.31
H 449 e1: 463.002, 463.005, 463.0055, 463.006, 463.009, 641.31