Controversial Optometry Bill Passes W.Va. Senate

A bill that would allow optometrists to perform certain laser surgeries and injections has passed the West Virginia Senate by a vote of 20-13, according to a report in the Charleston Daily Mail.

The bill, proposed by Sen. Ed Bowman (D-Hancock), passed a Senate committee earlier this month. This version allows optometrists to perform three kinds of laser surgeries to treat glaucoma in collaboration with an ophthalmologist, who must be located within 40 miles of where the procedure is taking place, according to the report.

Sen. Bowman said that as long as optometrists receive certification and training from the Board of Optometry, the providers should be allowed to perform these procedures. Ophthalmology groups and others who oppose the bill argue the legislation should have been brought in front of a health committee, which may be the case when the bill reaches the House, according to the report.

Read the Daily Mail's report on the West Virginia optometry bill.

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