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Committee advances optometry modernization after hours of testimony from ophthalmologists and optometrists
Summary
House Bill 19‑52, which would allow qualified optometrists to perform three specified laser procedures, passed the subcommittee after contested testimony from ophthalmologists who warned of patient‑safety risks and optometrists who urged alignment with modern training to improve rural access.
Chairman Williams introduced House Bill 19‑52 as legislation to modernize the Tennessee Optometry Act by narrowly authorizing optometrists to perform three laser procedures — YAG capsulotomy, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and peripheral iridotomy — subject to board oversight and guardrails written into the amendment.
The committee heard extended testimony from physicians and optometrists. Dr. Brent Abbey, an eye surgeon, urged rejection, saying "This bill is not about access to care. It is about lowering the bar for who is allowed to perform surgery on a Tennessean's eye," and warned complications can be immediate and permanent. Optometrists and educators (Dr. Francis Bynum, Dr. David Hall, Dr. Connor Kaperman) said the procedures are part of accredited optometry training and that allowing qualified optometrists to perform them would keep care in rural communities and prevent cross‑state travel for routine laser procedures. Chairman Williams said the amendment clarified guardrails and excluded intravenous injections at the request of retina specialists.
After questions about complication rates, referral pathways and equipment costs, the committee recorded 6 ayes and 3 nays and advanced the bill to the full Health Committee. Supporters and opponents both urged continued attention to training, referral protocols and reporting to ensure patient safety if the law changes.
