2005 Vermont Code - § 1708. — Powers and duties

§ 1708. Powers and duties

(a) The board shall:

(1) Adopt rules under chapter 25 of Title 3 necessary for the performance of its duties, ensuring that at least the following are established by statute or rule:

(A) A definition of the behavior for which a license is required;

(B) Explanations of appeal and other significant rights given by law to licensees, applicants and the public; and

(C) Rules of practice in disciplinary cases, including provisions regarding representation and evidence at hearings and provisions regarding subpoenas and witness fees.

(2) Conduct any necessary hearings in connection with the issuance, renewal, suspension or revocation of a license or otherwise related to the disciplining of a licensee;

(3) Receive complaints and charges of unprofessional conduct against any holder of a license. The board shall investigate all complaints in which there are reasonable grounds to believe that unprofessional conduct has occurred.

(b) The board may:

(1) Issue subpoenas and administer oaths in connection with any authorized investigation, hearing, or disciplinary proceeding;

(2) Take or cause depositions to be taken as needed in any investigation, hearing or proceeding;

(3) Receive legal assistance from the attorney general of the state and from the legal counsel for the director of the office of professional regulation.

(c) The board shall not:

(1) limit the ownership of optometric practices to licensed optometrists;

(2) limit the number of offices or sites at which an optometrist may practice; or

(3) limit the right of optometrists to practice in an association, partnership, corporation, or other lawful entity with anyone. (Added 1979, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; amended 1983, No. 242 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 1989, No. 250 (Adj. Sess.), § 4(d).)