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Welcome back
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Government Affairs Weekly is back since lawmakers were in Sacramento today, but this publication won't return to its usual weekly schedule until the Legislature returns on January 4, 2017, for its 2017 session.
New and returning lawmakers converged in Sacramento today because they were sworn into office. COA volunteer leaders, COA staff and lobbyists made the rounds this afternoon to congratulate lawmakers at their various swearing in celebrations.
The 2017 California Legislature will face a very different environment. Democrats will now have the two-thirds "super" majority in both houses they need to approve tax increases, suspend legislative rules, pass emergency legislation or overturn the governor's vetoes without any support from Republicans. Another major change from last year will be all bills must be in print and available on the internet to read at least 72 hours before a vote (2016 Proposition 54). This new rule is expected to make it easier to kill legislation that would harm optometry but could make it more difficult to pass COA-supported legislation.
Next year optometry is facing several issues that we will have to contend with in this new political environment:
Scope of Practice - COA plans to introduce a bill next year to expand the scope of practice. The Optometric Practice Act is outdated and written in a way that sometimes does not allow the profession to use new medications and technologies. This bill is long overdue and our patients deserve the best care possible.
Children's vision - The California State Board of Optometry has indicated it plans to introduce legislation to require children to receive an eye exam before they enter school. COA will continue to support its efforts to ensure that all kids who enter school are prepared to learn.
Remote refraction - This is a top priority for COA. COA has teamed up with the California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons to oppose prescriptions for eyeglasses or contact lenses without an in-person eye exam. Our organizations have jointly asked the Medical Board and Board of Optometry to stop this illegal and potentially harmful perversion of technology. To bolster our case, we need your stories of harm or missed diagnosis that we can use in our media efforts and with lawmakers.
Contracting issues - COA continues to push for improved coordination of eye care, including getting optometrists reimbursed for providing medical eye services. COA has hired a consulting firm to help us approach health plans in a new way and we hope to improve how eye care is provided during this time of change in health care delivery.
This is a big agenda and we need to win on all fronts. For us to be successful, we need your help. If you have not done so already, contact Julie Andrade at jandrade@coavision.org and sign up to be a COA Key Person in your area. We need doctors who are willing to meet with their lawmakers about COA's priorities.
This year, we are bringing COA Legislative Day to you. Instead of having to travel to Sacramento, we are going to hold local events and invite lawmakers representing your society to come to you. Look for more information and dates when Government Affairs Weekly returns in January. |
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Cal-OPAC Fundraiser
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In order to maintain a strong profile in the Capitol, doctors of optometry must be able to elect and support those who support the profession of optometry in the Legislature.
To achieve that goal, COA recently hosted a fundraising event benefiting the California Optometric Association Political Action Committee - Cal-OPAC. It was a VIP brewery tour held in Sacramento on November 5, 2016. The tour included stops at Yolo Brewing Company, Rubicon Brewing Company, where lunch was served, and Track 7. The tour guides provided participants with a wonderful history of beer, how it came into existence, and why there are now so many varieties.
Thanks to those who came out to support Cal-OPAC and to those who weren't able to attend but made contributions. Everyone had a great time. If you were unable to participate, but would still like to make a contribution, click here, or if you have suggestions for future fundraising events, we'd love to hear from you! Please contact Julie Andrade at jandrade@coavision.org or 916-266-5031.
Cal-OPAC contributions are NOT tax deductible. Contributions to Cal-OPAC may be from an individual or a business and are not limited. An individual or business that contributes $100 or more in a calendar year will be publically reported. Paid for by California Optometric Association Political Action Committee, 2415 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95816
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Leases with an optical company or optician
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If you practice in a retail setting, make sure your lease complies with the new rules. If you are a COA member and want your lease reviewed, contact COA's longtime law firm, Wilke Fleury, at 916-441-2430. COA has a new legal resource program that allows you up to one-half hour (30 minutes) of telephone and research work per month with COA's attorney at no cost. If you have other questions, contact Kristine Shultz at kshultz@coavision.org. |
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Patient nondiscrimination posting requirement
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Medi-Cal and Medicare Advantage doctors must comply with new nondiscrimination requirements. Click here for more information and sample materials to ensure you are compliant. Please contact Jensen Jose at AOA with any questions. |
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