MS SB2852

Requires comprehensive eye examinations by optometrists or ophthalmologists for all students entering or enrolling for the first time in Mississippi public, private, or parochial schools, effective July 1, 2018.

Parents or guardians must present evidence of a passing eye examination within the previous six months or submit a waiver opting out before the end of the first semester.

State Department of Education, with input from the Mississippi Vision Foundation, must establish regulations by July 1, 2018 defining examination standards including visual acuity, ocular alignment, refraction, and dilated fundus examination.

Eye care professionals must provide written reports to parents, guardians, and primary health care providers including findings, diagnoses, recommended educational adjustments such as preferential seating or eyeglasses, and return visit recommendations.

Authorizes the State Department of Education to establish a separate vision-screening program for grades K-12 in public schools to identify students needing professional eye care, with funding subject to legislative appropriation.