The Authorization for the Original Optometry Practice Act in the State of Alabama

Abstract

This article describes the actions of the Alabama Optical Society in passing the first optometry practice act in the state of Alabama. It serves as a testament to the determination and persistence of those early optometry leaders in the state. It required three attempts over a nine-year time period before success was achieved. Even though this law was enacted 100 years ago, in some respects, the legislative process remains similar to legislative attempts undertaken by the profession today.