The bill S. 402 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding a new Article 24 to Chapter 71, Title 38, which is dedicated to regulating vision care plans. It defines key terms such as "vision care provider," "vision care insurance plan," and "insured." The bill establishes various requirements for vision care insurance plans, including allowing providers to opt out of exclusive supplier agreements without penalties, ensuring consumers can obtain products from out-of-network suppliers if not available in-network, and mandating that plans provide timely customer service for inquiries related to coverage and benefits.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that vision care insurance plans must disclose coverage details in plain language, provide real-time information on benefits and costs, and maintain updated online directories of participating providers. It also prohibits plans from restricting providers' ability to share healthcare information with patients and allows insured individuals to purchase lenses and frames separately without bundling them under a single coverage limit. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.