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Bill

Bill

HB 1333

RELATING TO ACUPUNCTURE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Ichiyama

Hawaii HB 1333 modifies acupuncture regulations, referred to health and consumer protection committees, currently pending in 2026 session.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 1333

Legislative bill overview

HB 1333 is a Hawaii bill introduced by Representative Linda Ichiyama relating to acupuncture regulation and practice. The bill has passed first reading and was referred to the Health (HLT) and Consumer Protection (CPC) committees before being carried over to the 2026 legislative session. Without access to the full bill text, the specific provisions cannot be detailed, but the referral to both health and consumer protection committees suggests it addresses licensing, scope of practice, consumer safety, or regulatory standards for acupuncturists.

Why is this important

Acupuncture regulation directly affects consumer access to healthcare services and practitioner licensure standards. Changes to acupuncture laws can impact insurance coverage, professional credentialing requirements, and the integration of traditional medicine practices within Hawaii's broader healthcare system. Both the health and consumer protection committee referrals indicate concerns about safety standards and consumer protections in the acupuncture field.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice boundaries: Disagreement over what services acupuncturists can legally provide and whether they should be permitted to diagnose conditions
  • Licensing and credential requirements: Disputes about education standards, examination requirements, and reciprocity with other states' acupuncture licenses
  • Insurance and reimbursement: Questions about whether acupuncture services should be covered by health insurance plans and how payment structures should be regulated

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

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