SB 1080 Summary

• Expands acupuncture definition to include prescribing herbal therapies, ordering diagnostic imaging and laboratory procedures, and using decision-support tools commensurate with practitioner's education and training.

• Establishes "acupuncture assistant" category for unlicensed persons completing board-approved training programs who may remove needles, monitor procedures, and perform noncritical functions under licensed acupuncturist supervision, but cannot insert needles or modify treatment plans.

• Requires acupuncture assistants to register with the board and prohibits use of "acupuncture assistant" or "A.A." title without proper licensing and supervision.

• Requires fingerprint clearance card possession for initial licensure or renewal of both acupuncturists and acupuncture detoxification specialists beginning January 1, 2023.

• Adds acupuncture board of examiners to agencies requiring fingerprint background checks and mandates board adoption of rules for acupuncture assistants by January 1, 2024.