The proposed Naturopathic Physician Practice Act establishes a regulatory framework for naturopathic medicine in Arkansas, overseen by the Arkansas State Medical Board. It introduces a new subchapter to the Arkansas Code that outlines the qualifications for licensure, which include graduating from an approved naturopathic medical school, passing a national licensing examination, and maintaining professional liability insurance. The bill also creates a Naturopathic Physician Advisory Committee to assist the Board and mandates that only licensed individuals may use the titles "naturopathic physician," "naturopathic doctor," or related abbreviations, with penalties for unauthorized use.

Furthermore, the legislation specifies the scope of practice for licensed naturopathic physicians, allowing them to perform physical examinations, order laboratory tests, and prescribe certain substances, while prohibiting surgeries beyond minor office procedures and the use of general anesthetics. It emphasizes public health and safety by ensuring that only qualified individuals can practice in the state. The bill also includes provisions for license renewal, continuing education requirements, and the establishment of approved naturopathic medical schools, with the first licenses expected to be issued by December 1, 2025, to applicants who meet the outlined criteria.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB117 V4 - 3-11-2025 03:08 PM: 17-102-102(1), 17-102-102(3), 17-102-103(a), 17-102-104(c), 17-102-106, 17-102-303(c), 17-102-304(a), 17-102-305(b), 17-102-307(1), 17-102-308(a), 17-102-309(a), 03-11-2025, 25-16-903(1), 25-43-802(a)
Old version SB117 V5 - 3-31-2025 02:18 PM: 17-102-102(1), 17-102-102(3), 17-102-103(a), 17-102-104(c), 17-102-106, 17-102-303(c), 17-102-304(a), 17-102-305(b), 17-102-307(1), 17-102-308(a), 17-102-309(a), 03-31-2025, 25-16-903(1), 25-43-802(a)
Old version SB117 V6 - 4-8-2025 10:16 AM: 17-102-102(1), 17-102-102(3), 17-102-103(a), 17-102-104(c), 04-08-2025, 17-102-106, 17-102-303(c), 17-102-304(a), 17-102-305(b), 17-102-307(1), 17-102-308(a), 17-102-309(a), 25-16-903(1), 25-43-802(a)