Powers and duties of board; seal.

(A) The board shall: (1) determine the eligibility of applicants for examination and licensure as optometrists; (2) prescribe the subjects, character, and manner of licensing examinations; (3) adopt a code of professional ethics appropriate to the profession of optometry; (4) evaluate and set criteria for continuing education course hours and programs; (5) conduct hearings on alleged violations by licensees of this chapter or regulations promulgated under this chapter; (6) discipline persons licensed under this chapter; and (7) promulgate regulations in accordance with the South Carolina Administrative Procedures Act. (B) The board may adopt an official seal and may adopt bylaws governing its proceedings.