Texas House Bill HB3505

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Texas Optometry Board.

Impact

The enactment of HB3505 is expected to centralize regulatory authority within the Texas Optometry Board, streamlining the governance of optometry practices throughout the state. By granting the board sole authority to define the scope of practice, it aims to improve consistency in the application of optometry regulations, potentially enhancing the quality of care provided to patients. The board will be required to adopt necessary rules to implement these changes by a specified deadline, emphasizing the importance of timely regulation.

Summary

House Bill 3505 aims to clarify and enhance the authority of the Texas Optometry Board in regulating the practice of optometry in Texas. This bill amends the Occupations Code to provide the board with the sole authority over the practices of optometrists and therapeutic optometrists, ensuring that all regulatory interpretations and scopes of practice are determined exclusively by the board. The measure includes the ability of the board to issue advisory opinions and declaratory rulings regarding the provisions of the chapter and any rules adopted under it.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB3505 is the potential implications it may have on local optometry practices and their ability to interpret regulations autonomously. Critics might argue that giving sole authority to the Texas Optometry Board could limit the ability of practitioners to operate under more localized standards or interpretations that may better serve the unique needs of their communities. However, supporters of the bill contend that uniform regulations are necessary to maintain high standards of care across the state and prevent disparities in optometric services.