Breaking News: FL “Not A Doctor” Bill Vetoed in Victory for Doctors of Optometry

Breaking News

In a critical win, the Florida Optometric Association (FOA) shared the important announcement that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis today vetoed the proposed “Not a Doctor” bill, SB 230. This bill, which would have prohibited a doctor of optometry from using the term “optometric physician” and would have made them subject to a felony prosecution if not in compliance, was a direct attack by organized medicine and ophthalmology which have opposed expansion of scope to doctors of optometry across the country.

"The FOA Board of Trustees and legislative chair are happy to report that Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed SB 230 today. It is with sincere gratitude that the Governor was able to see that SB 230 discriminated against the honorable profession of optometry and that the role optometrists play in the delivery of quality eye care for all Floridians will not be diminished or tarnished in any way.

The FOA Board of Trustees wants to thank everyone across the state of Florida and around the country who took the time to write or call the Governor's office asking for a VETO. We also wish to thank the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the AOA staff, every state association and the many individuals, entities and organizations for their ongoing support of Florida optometry."

AOA President Ronald L. Benner, O.D., supported the FOA’s message. “Gov. DeSantis’ decisive action today is a powerful message of support for and recognition of optometry’s essential and expanding role in health care. The FOA fought and prevailed in a challenging battle and did so by remaining confident in the knowledge that truth, fairness and the needs of patients across the Sunshine State would prevail. I’m proud to say thank you to Gov. DeSantis, the FOA and colleagues from across the country who helped ensure that our profession was heard loud and clear.”

As always, the AOA is prepared to take any and all necessary steps up to and including legal action against any effort to discriminate against the profession of optometry or to infringe on optometry’s essential and expanding role in health care.

2024 OPW Industry Partners

Platinum Partners

Gold Partners

Bronze Partners