Authorizes the dispensing of a supply of more than 72 hours of therapeutic contact lenses

BILL NUMBER:S1447B

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to authorizing the dispensing of therapeutic contact lenses

Purpose

To clarify the authority of eye care professionals to dispense therapeu- tic contact lenses.

Summary of provisions

Section 1 of the bill exempts the dispensing of therapeutic contact lenses (approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration) from the limitation on the dispensing of drugs.

Section 2 of the bill clarifies the definition of the words "drug" and "prescription drug" to include vision corrective or non-corrective contact lenses that contain pharmaceutical agents and FDA approved.

Section 3 relates to the practice of ophthalmic dispensing and sets the guidelines under which such professionals may adapt and fit such lenses.

Section 4 of the bill sets an effective date that is contingent on FDA approval.

Justification

Advances in eye care have led to the development of contact lenses that are coated by certain pharmaceutical agents such as antihistamines or antibiotics. These "therapeutic contact lenses" will improve eye care and convenience for those people that wear contact lenses. These products will soon be available to the public and this bill will clarify the ability of eye care professionals to offer these innovative products to their patients.

Legislative history

2007-08: S.8115

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect only upon the approval of the FDA of a vision corrective or non-corrective contact lens that contains a pharmaceutical agent.