AK HB115

Establishes a Naturopathy Board consisting of five members (one public member, two licensed naturopaths, one pharmacist, one MD/DO) appointed by the governor for three-year terms.

Requires naturopathy license applicants to hold a doctoral degree from an accredited naturopathic medical school, pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination, pass a pharmaceutical examination, and complete fingerprinting and criminal background checks.

Authorizes licensed naturopaths to prescribe natural substances, vaccines, contraceptive devices, and drugs (if passed pharmacology exam), but prohibits prescribing cancer chemotherapeutic agents or controlled substances.

Requires continuing education equivalent to physician assistant standards, including minimum two hours on pain management and opioid use/addiction within two years before license renewal; mandates current CPR certification.

Specifies disciplinary grounds for license suspension or revocation including fraud, incompetence, sexual misconduct, drug violations, and unresolved disciplinary action in other jurisdictions; establishes civil penalties up to $25,000.

Takes effect January 1, 2025; allows current naturopath licensees to continue practicing under existing licenses until normal expiration.