MS HB1302

Expands the definition of optometry practice to include examination, diagnosis, and management of eye and eyelid diseases and conditions, with authority to prescribe and administer pharmaceutical agents (excluding intraocular injections or implantations).

Authorizes optometrists certified by the Board of Optometry to perform specific eyelid procedures using local anesthesia, including drainage of abscesses, excision of lesions up to 5 millimeters, chalazion treatment, eyelid laceration repair up to 2.5 centimeters, and removal of eyelid foreign bodies.

Prohibits optometrists from performing cataract surgery or any intraocular surgical procedures except YAG laser posterior capsulotomy (if board-certified) and allows removal of superficial foreign bodies from the eye.

Establishes requirements for YAG laser posterior capsulotomy certification, including completion of a board-approved 32-hour minimum course, written exam, clinical skills assessment, and 8 hours of preceptor training under an ophthalmologist or licensed optometrist.

Authorizes the State Health Officer to allow therapeutically licensed optometrists to administer inoculations during public health emergencies and removes previous language limiting optometrists' use of pharmaceutical agents.