Acupuncture

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jose Alvarez and 1 co-sponsor

Bill HB 169 modernizes Florida's acupuncture regulations, updating licensure requirements and expanding practitioners' scope to enhance care quality and safety.

Received

#regulationofprofessionsandoccupations

Purpose and Intent

Bill HB 169 aims to amend existing Florida statutes related to acupuncture, enhancing the definitions, licensure requirements, and practices associated with acupuncture and eastern oriental medicine. The bill seeks to modernize the regulatory framework governing acupuncture practitioners, ensuring that it aligns with contemporary practices and educational standards.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to the Florida Statutes, particularly in Chapter 457, which governs acupuncture:

Revised Definitions:

Acupuncture: Expanded to include various techniques such as electroacupuncture, Qi Gong, eastern oriental massage, and herbal therapy.
Acupuncturist: Defined as a licensed individual authorized to practice acupuncture as a primary health care provider.
Prescriptive Rights: Clarified to include the prescription and administration of certain devices and supplements used in acupuncture practice.

Licensure Requirements:

Applicants must complete 60 college credits from an accredited institution and a 4-year course of study in acupuncture and eastern oriental medicine.
Successful completion of a board-approved national examination is required, which includes both written and practical components.
The bill sets specific fees for examination, application, reexamination, and initial licensure, with maximum amounts specified (e.g., $500 for examination).

Applicability:

The bill allows acupuncturists licensed in other states to perform acupuncture procedures for educational purposes at board-approved programs.

Removal of Obsolete Provisions:

The bill aims to eliminate outdated regulations and ensure that the practice of acupuncture reflects current standards and practices.

Affected Parties

Acupuncturists: The bill directly impacts licensed acupuncturists in Florida by updating their licensure requirements and expanding their scope of practice.

Educational Institutions: Schools offering acupuncture programs will need to align their curricula with the new standards set forth in the bill.

Patients: Individuals seeking acupuncture treatment may benefit from a more standardized and regulated practice environment.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: October 14, 2025

Current Status: The bill is currently in the Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee, having been referred to this committee along with the Health & Human Services Committee on October 21, 2025.

Effective Date: The bill will take effect upon becoming law, with specific provisions outlined for implementation.

Conclusion

HB 169 represents a significant update to Florida's acupuncture regulations, aiming to enhance the quality and safety of acupuncture practices in the state. By revising definitions, licensure requirements, and removing obsolete provisions, the bill seeks to ensure that acupuncture practitioners are well-prepared to provide effective care based on both traditional and modern practices.

Bill