HB61 Summary

• Continues the existence and functioning of the Alabama Board of Optometry until October 1, 2017, pursuant to the Alabama Sunset Law.

• Deletes the requirement that applicants for optometry licensure must have completed four years of high school or its equivalent and be a high school graduate.

• Requires optometry license applicants to be at least 19 years old, a U.S. citizen or legally present alien, have good moral character, complete at least three years of preoptometry education at an accredited college, and graduate from an accredited optometry school with at least four years of professional study.

• Sets the maximum application fee for the standard examination at $500 and requires examinations to be held at least once per year for applicants who apply at least 30 days in advance.

• Takes effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.