STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS27283 / H0317
Consistent with the Governor's Licensing Freedom Act, this proposed legislation aims to implement a 2018
recommendation to organize the "Optometric Physician Licensing Act" in a manner consistent with the way
legislation for regulated professions and occupations is written today. The proposal will also include the
addition of an inactive license status; clarify that the Act does not apply to the sale of reading glasses and
magnifiers; and add exemptions from licensure for federal employees who are practicing in the scope of their
employment and for optometrists licensed in another state who are consulting with an Idaho optometrist or
teaching a course. This legislation will also include an expanded scope of practice to allow optometrists to
perform certain laser surgical procedures once those optometrists have met certain examination and experience
requirements.
FISCAL NOTE
There is no impact to the General Fund, because the board operates solely on dedicated funds. There is no
impact to the Bureau of Occupational Licenses dedicated fund since the proposed legislation will not alter the
number of board meetings held each year, require more services be provided to the board, or change any fee
schedules.
Contact:
Kelley Packer
Bureau of Occupational Licenses
(208) 334-3233
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 01/13/2020, 9:00 AM