The bill amends the Wyoming Acupuncture Practice Act to regulate naturopathic medicine, thereby expanding the Wyoming Board of Acupuncture's scope to include both acupuncture and naturopathic practices. It introduces definitions for terms such as "licensed naturopathic physician" and "approved naturopathic medical program," and increases the board's membership from five to nine, ensuring representation from both acupuncture and naturopathic medicine professionals. The legislation mandates that individuals must be licensed to practice naturopathic medicine by January 1, 2026, and outlines the necessary educational qualifications and examination requirements for licensure.
Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for practicing naturopathic medicine without a valid license and sets guidelines for the board's responsibilities, including the establishment of practice standards and the scope of practice. It allows for licensure by endorsement for those already licensed in other states and emphasizes the importance of professional conduct, with provisions for disciplinary actions such as license suspension or revocation. The bill also clarifies that it does not apply to individuals already licensed under other specified titles of Wyoming statutes and empowers various authorities to seek injunctions against unlicensed practices. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with certain sections becoming effective immediately.