Representatives from The Vision Council (TVC) joined independent optometric alliance groups and eyewear manufacturers on Capitol Hill on January 21 to discuss the impact of tariffs on the cost of vision care. The meetings focused on concerns that rising costs tied to current trade policies are affecting optical businesses, independent practices, and patient access to prescription eyewear.
According to TVC, increased costs for prescription eyewear may have broader public health implications: More than 70% of Americans rely on prescription eyewear. Higher out-of-pocket costs can lead some patients to delay care, potentially allowing conditions such as glaucoma or diabetes-related eye disease to go undiagnosed.
“We appreciated the opportunity to meet with lawmakers and share real-world examples of how current trade policies are driving up costs for both businesses and patients,” said TVC CEO Ashley Mills. “Prescription eyewear is classified as a Class I medical device, yet it does not receive the same tariff exemptions as other low-risk medical products. These policies are unintentionally limiting access to care, especially for children, seniors, and vulnerable populations.”
During the visit, representatives met with 11 congressional offices as well as staff from the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, which oversees health care policy and programs related to access to vision care.
The discussions also addressed challenges facing small and mid-sized optical companies seeking to expand domestic manufacturing. Although participants expressed support for strengthening US-based production, they cited limited access to raw materials such as acetate, along with labor, regulatory, and tariff-related costs, as ongoing obstacles for independent manufacturers and practices.
“Independent optometrists play a critical role in delivering accessible, high-quality eye care in communities across the country,” said IDOC President and CEO Dave Brown. “By coming together on Capitol Hill with other optometric leaders, we’re ensuring lawmakers understand the real-world challenges our doctors face and the policies needed to protect patient access, support independent practices, and strengthen the future of optometry.”
Industry leaders attending the meetings included representatives from independent optometric alliance groups and eyewear manufacturers, such as Jamie Rosin of Rosin Optical Co. Inc., Jeff Duncan of Vision Source, Dr. Matt Alpert of The Eye Consortium, and Jim McGrann of Advancing Eyecare.
The coalition urged lawmakers to consider policy approaches that align trade policy with public health priorities, including tariff relief for low-risk optical medical devices and improved coordination among federal agencies. Participants also discussed ongoing advocacy efforts, including a bipartisan congressional letter and potential legislation aimed at reducing the cost of prescription eyewear and maintaining access to vision care.
TVC said it will continue to engage with policymakers on behalf of its more than 375 member companies to advocate for policies supporting affordable vision care and a stable optical industry.