AK SB193

Establishes new pharmaceutical training and examination requirements for optometrist licensure, including written and practical examinations on ocular pharmacology, at least 23 hours of nontopical therapeutic pharmaceutical agent coursework, and at least 7 hours of injection technique training.

Creates a retired status optometrist license that is valid for life, requires a one-time fee, does not require renewal, and prohibits the license holder from practicing optometry in the state.

Allows a person with a retired status license to apply for active licensure if they meet reasonable criteria established by the board through regulation.

Removes the requirement that optometrist applicants demonstrate high school-level education equivalent and simplifies examination retake provisions to allow retaking the entire examination rather than just failed portions.

Includes transitional provisions allowing existing licensees without pharmaceutical endorsements to obtain restricted licenses that prohibit pharmaceutical agent prescription and use, with modified continuing education requirements.