Currently, Pennsylvania students are required to have a vision screening before they enter school, every year until they reach fifth grade, and every two years after that. If a child fails one of these screenings, they are required to have a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose and treat the issue; however, there is no repercussion if a child does not have this exam. Therefore, a child can go a whole year without knowing they have a vision problem or repeatedly fail an eye exam without receiving the proper follow up needed to understand and correct the issue.
 
To combat this, I will be introducing legislation that ensures students are tested properly for potential vision problems. This legislation will require that students receive a vision screening or eye health exam every year. Additionally, before students begin school, in fourth grade, and in eighth grade, they will receive a comprehensive eye exam, which means that more students will receive the treatment they need for a vision problem.
 
Studies have shown that students who corrected a vision problem have better reading, math, and vocabulary scores. Further, these students tend to have better grades and larger improvements in their reading ability over time. Therefore, a mandated comprehensive eye health exam not only will improve our students’ vision, but it will also help the children of this Commonwealth do better academically. 
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to help our students receive the treatment they deserve.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1196: P.L.30, No.14