Governance
The legislative and policy-making body of the American Optometric Association is the House of Delegates, which is established and functions as provided in the bylaws. The administrative body of this association is the Board of Trustees, which implements the policies established by the House of Delegates and performs such duties as are prescribed in the bylaws.
Governance Documents
- Constitution and Bylaws - Effective January 1, 2020
- House of Delegates Resolutions and Substantive Motions
- House of Delegates Procedures
House of Delegates
Optometry's Meeting® 2021: Thursday, June 24 & Saturday, June 26
For more than a century, optometry's preeminent assembly of leaders and decision-makers has led the advancement of our profession. Join us as the House of Delegates discusses the latest developments in optometry and essential governance updates, news from the AOA Board of Trustees and the presentation of awards. All members are invited to attend sessions, including the election and installation of the AOA Board of Trustees. Hear the latest in advocacy news and accomplishments, and glimpse the future of optometry from our AOA leaders.
2021 Documents
Agenda & Handbook
Resolutions
Status Report - Proposed Resolutions
- Resolution A - Restrictions on Certain Activities of Trustees, Officers and Volunteers of the American Optometric Association
- Resolution B - Building a Diverse Profession
- Resolution C - The Optometric Oath
- Resolution D - Biomedical Therapy and the Role of Vision Rehabilitation
Judicial Council Motions: 5-Year Review
Judicial Council Motions: 5-Year Review (master document)
- Motion 1: Continue without Modification
- Motion 2: Delete - Executed
- Motion 3: Delete - Obsolete
- Motion 4: Remove and Archive
- Motion 5: Continue with Modification
- Motion 6: Continue with Nonsubstantive Modification
- Motion 7: Combine 1913 and 1883 - Modification
- Motion 8: Combine 1923 and 1981 - Modification
2021-2022 Board of Trustees Elections
Familiarize yourself with those doctors seeking to represent members on the AOA Board of Trustees. Be sure to check out our recent news article, containing full bio information for each candidate.
Candidates
2021-2022 AOA Board of Trustees Candidates (left to right): Robert C. Layman, O.D.; James P. DeVleming, O.D.; Ronald L. Benner, O.D.; Steven T. Reed, O.D.; Jacqueline M. Bowen, O.D.; Teri K. Geist, O.D.; Belinda R. Starkey, O.D.
Section Bylaws Amendment
U.S. House pens Medicare vision benefit language, but funding woes threaten derailment
Congress’ Sept. 15 deadline for bill language passes with lawmakers backing key guardrails that AOA’s advocates say must be in place for a workable benefit. Yet, price tag developments may forestall efforts.
Pandemic savings strategies
COVID-19 has taught us that planning ahead may be more critical now than ever. During periods of uncertainty, it’s important to keep a long-term perspective.
Building relationships
Not sure how to begin your journey as an advocate for optometry? According to an AOA Distinguished Service Award winner, the key is developing relationships with legislators and their staffs. Plus, more tips on advocating successfully.