West Virginia Bill Allows ODs to Provide Optometric Laser Surgery, Expanding Scope of Practice

CHARLESTON, W.Va.—A new bill that recently passed in West Virginia has expanded optometric scope of practice in most areas of the state, allowing doctors of optometry to provide a broader range of services, including laser surgery, while helping address critical access issues, according to an announcement from the American Optometric Association (AOA). Fourteen U.S. states now permit optometric laser surgery, the AOA said. Senate Bill 565 passed on May 1, 2025, enacting landmark legislation that is expected to increase patient access to critical eye health and vision care and modernize the scope of practice for West Virginia doctors, allowing them to provide certain in-office procedures, including laser treatments, the announcement said.