The Naturopathic Doctors Licensing Act establishes a regulatory framework for naturopathic medicine in New Jersey by creating the State Board of Naturopathic Examiners within the Division of Consumer Affairs. This board will consist of nine members, including six licensed naturopathic doctors, two public members, and one member from a State executive department. The board is responsible for setting licensure criteria, reviewing applications, adopting regulations, and establishing continuing education standards. The act defines key terms related to naturopathic practice and outlines the scope of services that licensed naturopathic doctors can provide, including diagnostic examinations and the ability to order diagnostic imaging studies, while requiring referrals to licensed professionals for conducting and interpreting these studies.

Additionally, the act mandates that applicants for licensure must graduate from an accredited naturopathic medical program and pass a licensing examination. It establishes a Naturopathic Childbirth Attendance Advisory Committee to oversee the specialty practice of naturopathic childbirth attendance, requiring practitioners to obtain a certificate of special competency. The bill amends existing law to formally recognize and govern the practice of naturopathic medicine, ensuring that only individuals with a valid license may practice or represent themselves as naturopathic doctors, with licenses requiring renewal every two years.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:1-2.1, 45:1-2.2, 45:1-3.1, 45:1-15