Oregon House approves bill to provide free eye exams and glasses for students

On February 3, 2025, the Oregon House Committee on Education convened to discuss House Bill 2992, a significant legislative proposal aimed at addressing the pressing issue of vision care among students in the state. The bill seeks to provide free eye exams and glasses to children in Title I schools, where a majority of students qualify for free or reduced lunch. This initiative is particularly crucial as approximately 40,000 students in Oregon are estimated to need glasses but do not have access to them.

State Representative Ben Bowman, a key proponent of the bill, highlighted alarming statistics during his testimony. He noted that one in four students in Oregon has vision issues, with a staggering 95% of first graders in low-income communities lacking the necessary eyewear. The consequences of untreated vision problems can be severe, leading to academic struggles, behavioral issues, and increased dropout rates. Bowman emphasized that providing glasses could significantly enhance students' learning experiences, equating the impact to an additional six months of classroom time, as supported by a study from Johns Hopkins University.

The proposed legislation would enable nonprofit organizations and community groups to administer the program, ensuring that students receive comprehensive eye exams and high-quality glasses at no cost to their families. The initiative aims to eliminate barriers to access, particularly in rural areas where families may face challenges in reaching eye care providers. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including educators and representatives from organizations like Vision to Learn and the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation, underscored the urgent need for such a program.

Colt Gill, interim superintendent of the Eugene School District, shared firsthand experiences from a pilot program that demonstrated the high demand for vision care services. He reported that over 20% of students at a demonstration site required eye exams, with many needing glasses. The program not only improved students' academic performance but also boosted their self-esteem and overall well-being.

The Oregon Education Association also expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing that vision care is an educational issue. They argued that when students can see clearly, they are better equipped to succeed in school, which ultimately contributes to improved educational outcomes.

As the committee deliberates on House Bill 2992, the discussions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing educational equity and addressing the needs of underserved students in Oregon. If passed, Oregon would become the first state to implement a statewide program of this nature, potentially serving as a model for other states to follow. The committee's decision on this bill could have lasting implications for thousands of students, ensuring that vision care is accessible and integrated into the educational framework.