MontanaHB 21869th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)House

Revising the practice of optometry to include certain laser procedures and in-office surgical procedures

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Optometrists can do more eye procedures

Beginning July 1, 2025, licensed optometrists can do more in office eye procedures. They may perform surgical and laser procedures on the front of the eye and nearby tissues. Laser work is allowed only if the optometrist is certified by the state board. The law does not allow deep eye surgery, injections into the eye, or refractive surgery. Optometrists can also remove objects on the surface of the eye or eyelids if the object is not inside the eye.

Laser certification path for optometrists

Beginning July 1, 2025, the Montana Board of Optometry sets rules for optometrist licenses and laser certification. To be certified for laser procedures, an optometrist must complete the required classroom and clinical training at an accredited optometry school that covers medical laser use for the eye. After the Board verifies training, it certifies the optometrist and issues a license that shows laser certification. Applicants must submit an application and pay the fee set by the Board.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Ed Buttrey
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Daniel Zolnikov
Republican • Senate
Greg Hertz
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 230 • No: 70

Senate vote • 4/1/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 38 • No: 12

Senate vote • 3/31/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 40 • No: 10

House vote • 1/29/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 76 • No: 24

House vote • 1/28/2025