A03060 - Vision Impairment Specialists Licensing

• Establishes licensure for two specializations: orientation and mobility specialists and vision rehabilitation therapists, requiring baccalaureate or graduate-level education, passing examination, minimum age of 21, and good moral character.

• Creates a State Board for Vision Impairment Specialists with at least 9 members including licensed practitioners, ophthalmologist, optometrist, public representative, and two blind representatives.

• Sets license fees at $200 for initial license and $150 for triennial registration; allows limited permits for one year (renewable once) at $70 for those meeting education but not examination/experience requirements.

• Requires vision impairment specialists to complete two hours of child abuse training and infection control training every four years, and mandates reporting of suspected child abuse.

• Permits unlicensed individuals employed by state agencies (OCFS, SED, DOH) to perform these duties without licensure until July 1, 2025, pending commissioner's report on necessary regulatory changes.