AN ACT to amend and reenact sections 43-13-01, 43-13-02, 43-13-05, 43-13-07, 43-13-08, 43-13-13, 43-13-13.2, 43-13-13.3, 43-13-15, 43-13-16, 43-13-17, and 43-13-19 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to optometrist licensure.

HB 1267 amends North Dakota's optometry licensure laws to clarify the scope of practice for optometrists. It explicitly defines "optometric services" to include prescribing certain eye-related medications (like diagnostic dyes and topical treatments) while prohibiting laser therapy and surgery except for removing superficial foreign bodies. The bill also establishes requirements for telemedicine providers ("distant site providers") to hold an active state license and defines key terms like "diagnosis and treatment" to ensure consistency. These changes directly affect optometrists, their practices, and the state licensing board, updating administrative rules and fee structures for licensure.