HB 40 Summary

• Establishes the Naturopathy Advisory Board with five members (two public members and three licensed naturopaths) appointed by the commissioner to advise on regulations and public policy.

• Requires naturopaths to hold a doctoral degree from an accredited naturopathic medical school and pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination.

• Permits licensed naturopaths to prescribe natural therapeutic substances, perform diagnostic tests, and conduct minor surgical procedures on superficial tissues, but prohibits prescription drugs, controlled substances, cancer chemotherapy agents, and major surgery.

• Establishes disciplinary grounds including fraud, professional incompetence, sexual misconduct, conviction of felonies, drug violations, and violations of public health laws; authorizes penalties up to $25,000 in civil fines, suspension, or license revocation.

• Effective date: January 1, 2022, with a transition provision allowing current licensees to continue practicing under existing licenses until normal expiration.