FL S1262

Requires children entering public or private schools to present certification of a comprehensive vision examination performed within 1 year before enrollment, in addition to existing health examination requirements, effective July 1, 2011.

Vision examinations must be performed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist in Florida or another state with equivalent or more stringent licensure requirements.

Exempts children from vision examination requirements upon written parental request citing religious objections, and provides temporary 30-day exemptions for homeless children and children known to the Department of Health.

Imposes a 25-cent fee on retail sales of nonprescription eyeglasses to fund financial assistance for parents unable to pay for school-entry vision examinations, with the Department of Health adopting eligibility and distribution rules.

Schools may allow students up to 120 days to present vision examination certification and must establish policies to assist students in obtaining the required examinations.