The bill CS/CS/HB 449 amends Florida's optometry laws to modernize the practice and expand the scope of certified optometrists. Key changes include the introduction of the term "certified optometric physician," which broadens the definition of certified optometrists, and the establishment of a joint committee to develop certification courses and examinations for those certified in ophthalmic procedures. Certified optometrists will now be required to pass a background screening and complete a specified course and examination for licensure. The bill also creates a negative formulary of ocular pharmaceutical agents that certified optometrists cannot prescribe and removes previous prohibitions on surgery, allowing for a wider range of procedures to be performed by optometrists.

Additionally, the bill outlines new regulations regarding the practice of optometry, including prohibiting licensed practitioners from engaging with corporations or lay individuals while allowing partnerships with other licensed health care professionals. It clarifies that commercial establishments cannot dictate how optometrists practice, and violations will be treated as unlicensed practice. The legislation also introduces provisions for nonlicensed supportive personnel to assist optometrists under indirect supervision and requires optometrists to demonstrate financial responsibility through various means. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the capabilities of optometrists while ensuring patient safety and maintaining professional standards in Florida.

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