Bill > H0803

This bill updates Florida's laws regarding acupuncture licensure and practice, making several key changes. The legislation revises definitions related to acupuncture, replacing the term "oriental" with "eastern" throughout the statute. It modifies licensure requirements, now mandating that applicants complete a 4-year course of study in acupuncture and eastern medicine, including 60 hours of injection therapy study. The bill expands the definition of acupuncture to include more comprehensive healthcare practices and prescriptive rights, allowing licensed acupuncturists to recommend and administer certain nutritional supplements in sterile form. Additionally, the bill updates continuing education requirements, allowing up to 30 hours of biennial education that can now include practice management topics. The legislation also clarifies that out-of-state acupuncturists can perform procedures or demonstrate equipment at board-approved continuing education programs. Infection control provisions are maintained, with a continued requirement that acupuncture needles must be sterile, disposable, and used only once. The changes aim to modernize and clarify the regulatory framework for acupuncture practice in Florida, with the new provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.