| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral |
Relating to the practice of therapeutic optometry.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The Optometry Board indicates that costs related to expert review of complaints as outlined by the bill cannot be determined at this time. If the number or complexity of associated complaints increases, the agency does not anticipate being able to absorb these expenses within existing appropriations and may be required to raise fees.
SB 993 would make some adjustments to the regulation and scope of practice of Optometrists in Texas.
The bill creates a process for a therapeutic optometrist to become certified to treat glaucoma, allows therapeutic optometrists to prescribe not more than a three day supply of any Schedule III, IV, or V federal controlled substance, and creates a requirement for a therapeutic optometrist to refer patients to an ophthalmologist if the patient has certain conditions.
The bill would require the Texas Optometry Board, in collaboration with the Texas Medical Board, to create a process for the hearing and resolution of complaints made by patients treated for glaucoma by therapeutic optometrists.
Texas Action is neutral on SB 993.