Bill > HB2143

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for regulating the "five-needle protocol," a standardized treatment involving stimulating five specific points on the outer ear to provide temporary relief from substance use disorder, mental health conditions, or trauma symptoms. The Oregon Medical Board is empowered to create a registry of qualified practitioners, with the authority to establish registration requirements including education, training, application fees, sanitation standards, and disciplinary procedures. The protocol involves using sterile, single-use needles, ear seeds, or ear beads on five specific ear points (shen men, sympathetic, liver, kidney, and lung points). While most practitioners must obtain specific registration to perform the five-needle protocol, licensed acupuncturists are exempt and can perform the procedure without additional registration. The bill also amends existing law to explicitly allow the five-needle protocol and provides that the new provisions will become operative on March 1, 2026, giving the Oregon Medical Board time to develop necessary rules and processes. The legislation aims to create a structured, safe approach to administering this alternative therapeutic technique while ensuring practitioner qualifications and patient safety.

Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2143