Following several prior hearings of HB 147, the House Health and Social Services Committee moved HB 147 out of committee and on to the next step in the legislative process yesterday, Jan 22.
HB 147 is “an Act relating to the practice of naturopathy,” establishing a licensing procedure for qualified naturopaths practicing in Alaska. Naturopathy is a form of alternative medicine, focused on natural remedies. It is often criticized as breaking from evidence-based medicine standards.
The bill is sponsored by Representative Mike Prax (R-North Pole) and co-sponsored by Representatives Rebecca Schwanke (R-Glenallen) and Andrew Gray (D-Anchorage). All three spoke at the meeting before the bill was passed out of committee.
Rep. Mike Prax summarized the bill, stating that the bill’s intent is to “establish a licensing procedure that allows naturopaths to work up to their education and training.” He emphasized that this would help Alaska’s primary care shortage. “[Naturopathy] is basically the same level of care, family practice level of care,” he claimed.
Then Rep. Andrew Gray explained his reasons for cosponsoring the bill. He argued that the bill will help attract well-trained naturopaths that can provide the standard of care to Alaskans who choose not to be seen by traditional medical providers. Many Alaskans either choose not to see traditional providers or seek additional opinions from naturopathic providers. Gray stated that the bill “meets people where they are.”
Lastly, Rep Rebecca Schwanke, also a cosponsor, spoke on her support of the bill. “This comes down to increasing opportunities for care for Alaskans,” she stated. According to Schwanke, Alaska is one of a growing number of states (26 states) that license and regulate naturopaths. She also spoke about her personal experience with a naturopath who helped her father after he received a terminal diagnosis from traditional providers. Her father is alive and well today.
Pleased to read of this action. As a many year user of CBD to treat my severe arthritis residing in every joint that can be affected. While CBD is now legal in all 50 states, the use of it as recognized natural product has been limited due to the reputation of THC. Yes, there still remains a very slight amount (.03%) in Full spectrum CBD, but not enough to affect the body system.
With the use of CBD I have mitigated migraine headaches, reduced stress,
and improved the immune system as to not be the community punch board for any and all seasonal illnesses that traverse through the area. At one time I was the poster boy for those illnesses. Never took COVID shots during that diabolical period and was COVID free. So in closing, thanks for this legislation and I trust it will be enacted.
Cheers,
Al Johnson-Ketchikan