The bill amends Alaska's naturopathy practice regulations by introducing new provisions for the issuance of temporary endorsements and endorsements for licensed naturopaths. Under the new sections, a naturopath can obtain a temporary endorsement if they pass a pharmacology examination and meet other departmental requirements. This temporary endorsement allows them to prescribe and administer prescription drugs under the supervision of a licensed physician. The bill also establishes continuing education requirements, mandating that naturopaths complete 30 hours of education for license renewal and an additional 20 hours focused on pharmacotherapy for endorsement renewal.
Additionally, the bill revises existing restrictions on the practice of naturopathy, allowing prescription drug administration only with a valid endorsement. It also updates the grounds for disciplinary actions against naturopaths, replacing terms related to license suspension and revocation with "disciplinary sanctions." The bill clarifies the process for license reinstatement and introduces penalties for unlicensed or unendorsed practice, categorizing it as a class A misdemeanor. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the standards and oversight of naturopathic practice in Alaska.
Statutes affected: SB0193A, AM SB 193, introduced 05/13/2025: 08.45.050, 08.45.034, 08.45.033, 08.45.038, 08.45.037, 08.45.039, 08.45.060, 08.45.070, 08.45.040, 44.64.010, 08.45.080, 08.45.010, 08.45.090