Senate Bill 2749 Summary

• Establishes licensing for naturopathic physicians under the State Board of Medical Licensure, requiring graduation from an approved naturopathic medical program and passage of a national competency examination.

• Allows licensed naturopathic physicians to order diagnostic tests, prescribe non-controlled substances including botanicals and supplements, perform minor office procedures, and provide health education under general physician supervision.

• Prohibits naturopathic physicians from prescribing controlled substances, performing surgeries beyond minor procedures, using anesthetics, performing laser surgery, or practicing as other health care professionals without separate licensure.

• Licenses expire every 2 years and require renewal through application, fee payment, and continuing education; licenses can be issued without additional examination from applicants licensed in good standing in other states with equivalent standards.

• Creates a Naturopathic Advisory Committee composed of a physician, certified nurse midwife, licensed naturopathic physician, and legislative representatives to recommend naturopathic medicine policies to the 2019 Legislature; effective July 1, 2018.