SB 2276 Summary

• Comprehensively updates Hawaii's acupuncture licensing laws to modernize scope of practice and requirements, reflecting expanded use and educational standards in the field.

• Establishes two new license designations effective July 1, 2023: "L.Ac." (Licensed Acupuncturist) for master's degree holders and "D.Ac." (Licensed Doctor of Acupuncture) for doctorate degree holders from accredited institutions.

• Requires all new applicants to pass National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) certification and complete programs at accredited acupuncture medicine institutions.

• Implements continuing education requirement of 30 hours per licensing biennium (starting July 1, 2025), including mandatory ethics and safety training, plus current CPR certification.

• Permits acupuncture licensing by reciprocity for practitioners holding unencumbered active licenses in other states with equivalent qualifications and current NCCAOM certification.