S. 2907 Summary

• Creates Article 169 of Education Law establishing licensure for vision impairment specialists with two specializations: orientation and mobility specialists and vision rehabilitation therapists.

• Requires applicants to complete approved baccalaureate or graduate-level education, pass an examination, be at least 21 years old, and be of good moral character; initial license fee is $200 with $150 triennial registration fee.

• Establishes a State Board for Vision Impairment Specialists with at least nine members including licensed practitioners, physicians, optometrists, public representatives, and blind representatives from organizations of the blind or visually impaired.

• Adds vision impairment specialists to mandatory reporters of child abuse under Social Services Law and requires completion of child abuse identification and reporting training and infection control coursework as conditions of licensure.

• Allows vision impairment specialist services to be provided by employees of state agencies and educational institutions without licensure until July 1, 2025, with reporting requirements by September 1, 2024; law takes effect 18 months after enactment.