The optometrist shall have a right, at reasonable intervals after a year, to petition the board, in writing, for the removal of the voluntary restriction and to demonstrate that he or she is capable of resuming the competent practice of optometry with reasonable skill and safety to patients.

1. A. The board shall act on the petition by referring it to the examining committee, who shall conduct the necessary examination of the optometrist, and make written recommendation to the board.

2. B. Upon consideration of the examining committee’s recommendation, the board may, in its discretion, remove the voluntary restriction on the optometrist’s license.

   [2-15-99; 16.16.24.21 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 16.24.21, 03-15-2001]