Okla. passes first statutory vision screening mandate

The first statutory vision screening mandate for school children entering kindergarten, first and third grades has passed the Oklahoma legislature, according to various news reports.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus and the Oklahoma Academy of Ophthalmology worked with Gov. Brad Henry to ensure the bill’s passage, the groups said.

Children who fail the screening are referred for further vision evaluation performed by either an ophthalmologist or optometrist.

The law is effective beginning with the 2007-2008 school year.