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Optometry scope bills see progress in Louisiana
Two bills in Louisiana that would expand optometrists' scope of practice have passed through committee.
The Senate Committee on Health and Welfare passed SB 568 last week by a vote of 7-1, according to James Sandefur, OD, executive director of the Optometry Association of Louisiana.
The House Committee on Health and Welfare passed HB 1065 on Tuesday by a vote of 10-9, as detailed on the Louisiana state legislature's website.
Specifically, the bills would allow optometrists to perform several laser procedures, including YAG capsulotomy, peripheral iridotomy and selective laser trabeculoplasty, Sandefur explained.
They would also allow "removal of lumps and bumps on the lids," Sandefur told Primary Care Optometry News.
Each bill will now go to its respective full floor.