On September 5th, both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate returned to session. With the Contact Lens Rule under review and an ongoing public comment process since 2016, a final ruling on its proposed changes is expected soon. Recently, the AOA urged its constituents to meet with their congress members while they were out of session and in their home states during August.
In a statement to its membership, the AOA cautioned, Now, with FTC action imminent, proponents of the FTC proposal, including unscrupulous online contact lens sellers, are ramping up their efforts on Capitol Hill and are even attempting to mislead and deceive lawmakers. While their dishonest tactics aren't going unnoticed, it is imperative that optometry fights back and sets the record straight at this critical time.
CooperVision, both independently and as a member of the Coalition for Contact Lens Patient Safety, continues to advocate against the proposed changes to the Contact Lens Rule and will closely monitor the process moving forward. A full review of CooperVision’s role and advocacy efforts related to the Contact Lens Rule can be read here.
We urge you to reach out to your own members of Congress and urge thoughtful oversight of the FTC during this final phase of review. Contact information for your members of Congress can be found by visiting the US Government web site here.