ND HB1267

Authorizes licensed optometrists to provide telemedicine services for consultation, diagnosis, and treatment of ocular diseases, requiring the initial patient relationship be established through an in-person eye examination with a North Dakota-licensed optometrist

Extends the exemption period for optometry student interns from three months to six months after graduation to practice under licensed optometrist supervision

Removes the mandatory requirement for optometrists to consult with a physician when eye conditions do not respond to treatment, while maintaining the same standard of care as physicians for pharmaceutical agent use

Renames the board's "secretary" position to "executive director" and authorizes the board to establish various fees by rule, including application, license, renewal, and continuing education fees

Passed the House 81-2 and Senate 47-0 during the 69th Legislative Assembly session commencing January 7, 2025