HB 1269 -- Vision Exams for School Children

Sponsor:  Jetton

Beginning July 1, 2007, this bill requires children enrolling in
kindergarten or first grade in a public school to receive a
vision examination and submit the results to the school no later
than January 1 following their enrollment.  The Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education in conjunction with the
Department of Health and Senior Services will maintain a list of
sources for referral through which free or reduced-cost care may
be obtained.  The list will be distributed to superintendents,
school nurses, and parent organizations each year before school
begins.  The bill specifies the elements of the exam and the
equipment necessary to conduct the exam.  Exam findings must be
retained six years.  Exemption from exams on religious grounds
may be obtained upon written request to the appropriate school
administrator.  Moneys up to $99,000 per year may be appropriated
from the Blindness Education, Screening, and Treatment Program
Fund to meet the costs of vision exams not covered by existing
public health insurance.

Missouri House of Representatives
93rd General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated November 29, 2006 at 9:42 am