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HB 1527

Complementary and Alternative Health Care - Practice Authorized (Complementary and Alternative Health Care Practice Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lauren Arikan

Maryland bill would establish legal framework authorizing complementary and alternative health care practices with regulatory standards, expanding non-conventional medicine options while raising consumer protection questions.

Hearing 3/18 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1527

Legislative bill overview

HB 1527 would establish a legal framework authorizing complementary and alternative health care (CAHC) practices in Maryland by creating definitions, scope of practice standards, and regulatory guidelines. The bill appears designed to create formal recognition and oversight for practitioners of therapies outside conventional medicine, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, naturopathy, or similar modalities.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects consumer access to alternative health services and determines whether practitioners can legally operate in Maryland. It also impacts how these services are regulated, licensed, and potentially reimbursed, which has implications for healthcare costs, consumer protection, and the state's healthcare landscape.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and safety concerns: Defining what CAHC practices are "authorized" requires determining which unproven or minimally-regulated therapies the state will legitimize, raising questions about evidence standards and consumer protection
  • Professional licensing requirements: The bill must balance accessibility for practitioners with public safety—unclear whether it creates new licensing requirements or exempts CAHC providers from existing medical regulations
  • Insurance and reimbursement implications: If authorized CAHC practices become covered by insurance, this could increase healthcare costs or face resistance from conventional medical insurers and providers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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