The bill amends Alaska's naturopathy regulations by introducing new provisions for the issuance of temporary endorsements and endorsements for licensed naturopaths. It allows the Department to issue a temporary endorsement to a naturopath who has passed the required pharmacology examination and meets other departmental requirements. Naturopaths with a temporary endorsement can prescribe and administer prescription drugs under the supervision of a licensed physician. The bill also establishes continuing education requirements, mandating that licensed 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, specifying that practitioners may only prescribe drugs if they hold a valid endorsement. It updates the grounds for disciplinary actions against naturopaths, allowing for sanctions such as license revocation or suspension if they violate regulations. The bill also clarifies penalties for unlicensed practice and fraudulent activities related to obtaining licenses or endorsements. Overall, these changes aim 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