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HB 36

BOARD OF OPTOMETRY POWERS AND DUTIES

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Block and 3 co-sponsors

Expands New Mexico Board of Optometry's regulatory powers over licensure and practice standards, vetoed by governor despite bipartisan support.

Vetoed
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Bill Summary · HB 36

Legislative bill overview

HB 36 expands the powers and duties of New Mexico's Board of Optometry, likely granting the regulatory board broader authority over licensure, disciplinary actions, and scope of practice for optometrists. The bill passed both chambers but was vetoed by the governor on April 11, 2025.

Why is this important

Regulatory board authority directly affects how many professionals can practice in a state, what services they can provide, and how easily consumers can access eye care. Changes to optometry board powers can influence healthcare costs, professional competition, and patient choice between optometrists and ophthalmologists.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice expansion: The bill likely addresses what procedures optometrists can perform, which ophthalmologists and other eye care providers may view as encroaching on their domain
  • Licensing and regulatory barriers: Expanded board powers could make licensure more stringent or burdensome, potentially affecting workforce supply and accessibility
  • Veto rationale unclear: Without the governor's stated reasons, the veto suggests concerns about overregulation, professional turf wars, or inadequate safeguards were significant enough to reject bipartisan legislation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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