NY A02190

Creates a new professional licensing category for "vision impairment specialists" in New York, covering two specializations: orientation and mobility specialists (who train visually impaired individuals in safe movement and navigation) and vision rehabilitation therapists (who provide independent living and communication skills training including Braille and adapted computer technology)

Establishes a State Board for Vision Impairment Specialists consisting of at least nine members, including licensed specialists, an ophthalmologist, an optometrist, public representatives, and two blind representatives from organizations serving the visually impaired

Sets licensing requirements including completion of an approved baccalaureate or graduate program, passing an examination, being at least 21 years old, and paying a $200 initial license fee with $150 triennial registration renewals

Provides a three-year grandfathering period allowing individuals currently certified by a national certifying body or those with at least three years of work experience in vision impairment treatment settings to obtain licensure without meeting examination and education requirements

Exempts from licensure requirements employees of federal, state, county, or municipal agencies (except education department-regulated institutions), students in approved training programs, family members providing care, and dog guide instructors, with the exemption for certain agency employees expiring July 1, 2027