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11/06/2017 08:28 AMOct. 30, 2017: The Connecticut Association of Optometrists has selected State Rep. Vincent Candelora of North Branford (R, District 86) as "Legislator of the Year" for his work in ensuring that state residents receive accurate and safe contact lens prescriptions.
Candelora helped champion a new law that requires an in-person eye examination before a patient can be given a prescription for contact lenses or renewal of same. Some out-of-state internet sites claim to provide such examinations, but evidence has shown they can be inaccurate and result in serious damage a patient's eyes.
"I am honored to be recognized by the Connecticut Association of Optometrists," Candelora said. "Connecticut's optometric doctors provide outstanding vision care services to residents of our state."
The legislation, An Act Concerning Consumer Protection in Eye Care, passed both chambers of the General Assembly earlier this year and was signed into law by Governor Dannel P. Malloy on July 5.
Brian T. Lynch, OD, legislative chair for the organization, said, "The technology simply does not exist right now for eye examinations that are conducted remotely over the internet or by an application [app]. Until such times as technology leads these tests to be 100 percent accurate, they cannot take the place of a comprehensive eye examination performed by a vision professional."
Protecting patients from damage from improper contact lens prescriptions was the basis for the new law which took effect on October 1.
The award presentation was made to Candelora at the group's educational conference held in Mystic on October 21.
Rep. Candelora represents the 86th district comprised of parts of Durham, Guilford, North Branford and Wallingford. He serves as House Deputy Republican Leader.