Bill H. 4103 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the regulation of optometry by introducing a new section, 40-37-35, which allows the State Board of Examiners in Optometry to issue restricted volunteer licenses to out-of-state optometrists who meet specific criteria, such as holding a valid license in good standing and having at least five years of clinical practice. The bill outlines the conditions for these volunteer optometrists, including limitations on patient eligibility and remuneration. It also updates various sections of existing law to revise board membership requirements, clarify definitions related to optometry, and define the powers and duties of the board.

Additionally, the bill modifies licensing requirements for optometrists, including the types of pharmaceutical agents they may prescribe and the conditions for performing certain procedures. It removes provisions regarding the treatment of glaucoma and surgical practices while ensuring that optometrists maintain educational and competency standards. Key changes include the requirement for optometrists to refer patients to appropriate medical professionals when necessary and the prohibition of invasive surgeries, while allowing the removal of superficial foreign bodies. The bill also establishes that optometrists must maintain malpractice insurance and outlines conditions for providing services in schools, as well as liability protections for healthcare providers offering free services. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval and repeals Section 40-37-300.

Statutes affected:
02/26/2025: 40-37-35, 40-37-10, 40-37-20, 40-37-30, 40-37-40, 40-37-245, 40-37-290, 40-37-310, 40-37-330, 40-37-420, 38-79-30, 44-30-310, 40-37-300
Latest Version: 40-37-35, 40-37-10, 40-37-20, 40-37-30, 40-37-40, 40-37-245, 40-37-290, 40-37-310, 40-37-330, 40-37-420, 38-79-30, 44-30-310, 40-37-300