(1) Each of the following acts constitutes a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084:
(a) Practicing or attempting to practice optometry without a valid active license issued pursuant to this chapter.
(b) Attempting to obtain or obtaining a license to practice optometry by fraudulent misrepresentation.
(c) Using or attempting to use a license to practice optometry which has been suspended or revoked.
(2) Each of the following acts constitutes a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083:
(a) Identifying one’s activity by using the name or title “optometrist,” “licensed practitioner,” “certified optometrist,” “Doctor of Optometry,” or “O.D.” in a manner which represents to the public that the person is a licensed practitioner or certified optometrist when the person has not been licensed or certified pursuant to this chapter.
(b) Knowingly employing unlicensed persons in the practice of optometry, except as specifically authorized by this chapter.
(c) Knowingly concealing information relating to violations of this chapter.
(d) Willfully making any false oath or affirmation when required to make an oath or affirmation pursuant to this chapter.
History.—ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-194; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 16, 20, 21, ch. 86-289; s. 89, ch. 91-224; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 53, ch. 2000-318.