The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 148.56, subdivision 1, to modify the limitations on optometrists regarding the prescribing and administering of drugs. It clarifies that optometrists can prescribe or administer legend drugs to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of eye-related conditions, as long as these practices are in accordance with the curricula of accredited optometry schools and the regulations set by the Board of Optometry.

Key changes include the allowance for optometrists to administer drugs via sub-Tenon, retrobulbar, or intravitreal injection, which was previously restricted to only treatment of anaphylaxis. Additionally, the bill removes the previous limitations on prescribing Schedule II and III oral legend drugs and oral steroids, while introducing a new requirement that steroids cannot be prescribed for more than 14 days without consulting a physician. The bill also eliminates the restriction on prescribing oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors for more than seven days.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 148.56