Senate Bill 2026 Summary

• Reenacts the Mississippi Acupuncture Practice Act (Sections 73-71-1 through 73-71-51) establishing licensing and regulatory framework for acupuncture practitioners under the State Board of Medical Licensure.

• Requires all acupuncture applicants to undergo fingerprint-based criminal history background checks through Mississippi Department of Public Safety and FBI databases before licensure eligibility.

• Extends the automatic repealer date of the Acupuncture Practice Act from July 1, 2013 to July 1, 2017.

• Establishes a Mississippi Council of Advisors in Acupuncture consisting of three members appointed from nominees of the Mississippi Oriental Medicine Association to advise the State Board.

• Brings forward Section 73-23-33 defining physical therapy practice and related terms to clarify the distinction between acupuncture and physical therapy services.