The bill amends existing laws related to the practice of naturopathy in Alaska, introducing new provisions for the issuance of temporary endorsements and endorsements for licensed naturopaths. Under the new sections, a naturopath can receive a temporary endorsement if they pass a pharmacology examination and meet other departmental requirements, allowing them to prescribe and administer prescription drugs under supervision. The bill also establishes continuing education requirements for license renewal, mandating that naturopaths complete 60 hours of approved education, including 20 hours focused on pharmacotherapy, within a two-year period prior to renewal.

Additionally, the bill updates restrictions on the practice of naturopathy, specifying that prescription drugs may only be prescribed under valid endorsements. It also revises the grounds for disciplinary actions, replacing terms like "suspension" and "revocation" with "disciplinary sanctions," and clarifies the process for summarily suspending a license or endorsement if a licensee poses a danger to public health. The bill further addresses penalties for unlicensed practice and fraudulent activities related to obtaining licenses or endorsements, establishing clear consequences for violations.

Statutes affected:
HB0147A, AM HB 147, introduced 03/21/2025: 08.45.050, 08.45.034, 08.45.033, 08.45.037, 08.45.060, 08.45.070, 08.45.040, 44.64.010, 08.45.080, 08.45.010, 08.45.090