Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board of Optometry intends to consider amending 18VAC105-20, Regulations Governing the Practice of Optometry. The purpose of the proposed action is to consider deleting unnecessary or unenforceable rules, limiting the number of times an applicant can take and fail the licensing examination before additional education is necessary, and specifying the evidence of continued competency required for licensure by endorsement and reinstatement. For reinstatement of a lapsed license, the board will also consider requiring evidence of any disciplinary or malpractice action, and if the applicant is licensed in another state, the board will consider requiring evidence of a current, unrestricted license.

The agency intends to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: §§ 54.1-2400 and 54.1-3223 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: June 28, 2017.

Agency Contact: Leslie L. Knachel, Executive Director, Board of Optometry, 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23233, telephone (804) 367-4508, FAX (804) 527-4471, or email leslie.knachel@dhp.virginia.gov.