The bill amends K.S.A. 65-1501, which defines the practice of optometry in Kansas, by removing the term "adnexae" and the phrase "topical pharmaceutical drugs" from the definitions of optometric practices. It expands the scope of procedures that optometrists can perform, including the removal of non-perforating foreign bodies from the eye and providing pre-operative and post-operative care for certain surgical procedures. Additionally, the bill aligns the standard of care for diagnosing and treating adult open-angle glaucoma with that of licensed medical practitioners. It also updates definitions related to optometry and clarifies licensure requirements and continuing education for license renewal.

Moreover, the bill grants the board of examiners in optometry the authority to set rules regarding the approval of optometry schools and credentialing of licensees for specific procedures. It empowers the board to grant, suspend, limit, revoke, or refuse to renew licenses based on specified causes and to administer oaths, take testimony, and issue subpoenas. The bill mandates that witnesses, except state officers or employees, receive fees and mileage similar to civil cases. It also requires the board to adopt rules consistent with the optometry law, maintain accurate records of meetings and transactions accessible to the public, and repeals several existing statutes related to optometry, indicating a significant overhaul of the regulatory framework governing the profession. The act will take effect upon 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