VT S0064

Creates a new "advanced therapeutic procedures specialty" for qualified optometrists, allowing them to perform certain surgeries, laser procedures (capsulotomy, peripheral iridotomy, trabeculoplasty), and injections including therapeutic agents into the eyelid and subconjunctival space

Permits specialty optometrists to excise and repair nonrecurrent chalazia, biopsy non-malignant lesions up to 5mm, repair eyelid lacerations up to 2.5cm, and perform corneal crosslinking

Establishes qualification requirements including a minimum 32-hour postgraduate course for pre-2019 graduates, an 8-hour supervised preceptorship with hands-on procedures on live patients, and passage of National Board of Examiners in Optometry examinations

Explicitly prohibits optometrists from performing LASIK, refractive surgery, corneal transplants, retinal procedures, intraocular lens implants, cosmetic eyelid surgery, and procedures requiring general anesthesia

Requires 5 additional hours of continuing education per two-year licensure period for specialty holders, mandatory reporting of adverse events within 30 days, and takes effect January 1, 2027