The bill amends K.S.A. 65-1501, which defines the practice of optometry in Kansas, by removing the term "adnexae" and deleting references to "topical" pharmaceutical drugs and oral drugs. It clarifies the scope of optometry practice, allowing optometrists to perform procedures such as the removal of non-perforating foreign bodies and certain diagnostic tests, while explicitly prohibiting surgeries requiring general anesthesia. Additionally, it establishes that optometrists must adhere to a standard of care for diagnosing and treating adult open-angle glaucoma that is comparable to that of medical doctors. The bill also updates definitions related to optometry and introduces continuing education requirements for license renewal.

Moreover, the bill enhances the authority of the optometry board by granting it the power to administer oaths, take testimony, issue subpoenas, and compel witness attendance and document production. It specifies that non-state officer witnesses will receive fees and mileage akin to civil cases. The board is required to adopt rules consistent with optometry law and to meet annually for licensure examinations. The bill also repeals several existing statutes to streamline the legal framework governing the board's operations and emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate public records of the board's activities. The act will take effect upon its publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-1501, 65-1124, 65-2901, 65-5402, 65-1501a, 65-1505, 65-1509a, 65-1512, 65-1523, 74-1504, 65-1514, 74-1505