The bill amends Section 5-35.2-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 5-35.2 entitled "Opticians" to modify the qualifications required for optician applicants. It introduces a new pathway for qualification by allowing applicants to become licensed opticians if they have successfully completed an apprenticeship program registered in accordance with chapter 45 of title 28. This apprenticeship program must consist of at least 4,100 hours over a minimum of two years, in addition to meeting the approval of the applicable requirements of this section. The bill also removes the requirement for applicants to demonstrate "good moral character."

Furthermore, the bill maintains the existing requirements for applicants to pass the national opticianry competency examination or an approved written examination, as well as a practical examination approved by the department with consultation from the advisory committee. The changes proposed in this bill provide an alternative educational route for aspiring opticians through apprenticeship, while also simplifying the moral character standard. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2391: 5-35.2-2