Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Health Care & Wellness Committee |
HB 1181
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Creating the Washington state board of naturopathy.
Sponsors: Representatives Green, Hinkle, Santos and Dickerson.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/26/11
Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).
Background:
Naturopathic medicine is the art and science of the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disorders of the body through the natural processes of the body. Naturopathic medicine includes:
manipulation (mechanotherapy);
the prescription, dispensing, and use of nutrition and food science;
physical modalities;
minor office procedures;
homeopathy;
naturopathic medicines;
hygiene and immunization;
non-drug contraceptive devices;
common diagnostic procedures; and
suggestion.
Naturopaths are licensed by the Department of Health (DOH), which is responsible for:
adopting rules;
setting minimum education and experience requirements;
preparing and administering licensing examinations;
determining alternative training requirements;
implementing a continuing competency program;
setting license and examination fees;
issuing licenses;
maintaining records of applicants and licensees;
conducting hearings if a denial of a license is appealed; and
disciplining licensed Naturopaths for unprofessional conduct.
When carrying out its functions, the DOH is advised by the Naturopathic Advisory Committee, which consists of five members appointed by the Secretary of Health.
Summary of Bill:
The Board of Naturopathy (Board) is created (replacing the Naturopathic Advisory Committee). The Board consists of seven members appointed to the Governor for four-year terms. Five members of the board must be licensed Naturopaths and two members must be members of the public.
The Board is responsible for:
adopting rules;
setting minimum education and experience requirements;
preparing and administering licensing examinations;
determining alternative training requirements;
implementing a continuing competency program; and
disciplining licensed Naturopaths for unprofessional conduct.
The DOH maintains the responsibility for:
setting license and examination fees;
issuing licenses;
maintaining records of applicants and licensees; and
conducting hearings if a denial of a license is appealed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on 1/20/11.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.