DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 421 Reengrossed 2018 Regular Session Leger
Abstract: Revises licensing requirements for acupuncturists.
Present law provides that the La. Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME) shall certify as a licensed
acupuncturist any of the following:
(1) An individual who has graduated from an acupuncture school or college accredited by the
Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
(2) An individual who has successfully passed the certification examination given by the National
Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
Proposed law changes present law to provide that the LSBME shall certify as a licensed
acupuncturist an individual who meets both of the following:
(1) Holds active status with the NCCAOM.
(2) Has successfully passed the certification examination, including the Biomedicine portion of the
examination, given by the NCCAOM.
Present law requires a licensed acupuncturist to establish and maintain a relationship with a
physician who operates a physical practice location in the state.
Proposed law repeals the duty to maintain a relationship with a physician.
(Amends R.S. 37:1358)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Health and Welfare to the
original bill:
1. Clarify the certification requirements for licensed acupuncturists to be that the individual:
(a) Holds active status with the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and
Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). (b) Has successfully passed the certification examination, including the Biomedicine
portion of the examination, given by the NCCAOM.
2. Delete provision authorizing certification of an individual who has graduated from a
training program approved by the La. State Board of Medical Examiners.