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03/26/2026
OOS Testifies Against Amended Optometry Surgery Bill
OOS executive director, Todd Baker, along with OSMA VP of Advocacy, Monica Hueckel, provided testimony on March 25 against Substitute Senate Bill 36—which would expand optometric scope of practice in Ohio.
Links to the written testimony and verbal testimony video with questions are below.
(Start video at 4:00 minutes)
As a reminder, Substitute Senate Bill 36 (SB 36) would allow optometrists in Ohio to perform a wide range of surgical procedures. This legislation is dangerous for patients and unnecessary for Ohio. The Ohio Ophthalmological Society (OOS), American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), and Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA) are vigorously opposing SB 36.
Read the bill description & related issues >
This was the 6th hearing on the bill. This past October, four OOS leaders provided opponent testimony outlining a variety of concerns with the legislation. The expansion legislation continues to be the number one priority of the Ohio Optometric Association.
Both OOS and OSMA are committed to continuing to oppose this dangerous and unneeded legislation. Should you have any questions, please email the OOS office.
