I feel the proposal is a positive step forward for our patients and Virginia Optometry.  With the changing landscape of optometry and healthcare, this regulation helps "improve the knowledge and skills of optometrists in managing patient care and their practice".  Prior to practicing in VA, I was surprised by the current CE requirement of 16 hours where previously I was required to obtain 30 hours annually. 

One of the objections that I have seen is in regards to the Live CE/real-time interactive CE.  With this regulation, the 50% live is still easily attainable in a cost effective manner.   The "live" CE can be obtained via attending CE meetings (VOA, AOA, SECO, Review Meetings, etc.) or interactive "live" CE webinars and online conferences such as VOA Online CE, CEing is Believing and CEwire2016.  Less cost, no travel…the other 50% can still be obtained via online education with post-tests.