- Committee -

SCS/SBs 1085 & 1262 - This act creates the State Board of Naturopathic Medicine.

The act defines naturopathic medicine as "a system of primary health care for the prevention, diagnosis and care of human health conditions, injuries and diseases that uses education and natural substances and remedies to support and stimulate the individual's intrinsic self-processes".

The Board shall consist of six members, one of which must be a public member who has no connection with or material financial interest in the practice of naturopathy. Each member shall serve a four year term, except for the members first appointed.

The act establishes requirements and procedures for the licensure of naturopaths by examination and through a grandfather provision. Also established by the act are procedures for the renewal of a license and the requirements to be met for renewal of a license, including the completion of a minimum number of hours of continuing education.

The Board has the power to subpoena witnesses and records along with the power to enforce the Board's subpoenas in circuit court.

The act creates a list of persons who are exempt from the licensure requirements.

The Board may seek discipline of a license or to deny a license to an applicant for specified causes, or alternatively issue a restricted or probated license. Further, the Board may seek summary suspension of a license upon meeting certain requirements.

A board of naturopathic medicine fund is established to receive all fees collected by the board.

JIM ERTLE