12/05/2019
On December 4, 2019, Michigan acupuncturists were happily celebrating an historic legislative event! This day, Governor of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer, signed
House Bill 4710, sponsored by Representative Bronna Kahle (R-Adrian), into law.
The acupuncturists in Michigan participated in a lengthy process to make this happen, spearheaded by Henry Buchtel, R. Ac., Gigi B Cristache, DAOM, R. Ac., Kristin Whitfield, L. Ac., Bret Mar of Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates, LLC, and
many other local and national professionals and organizations who provided much needed information and help. We are grateful for everyone’s support!
House Bill 4710 establishes a licensing system for engaging in the practice of acupuncture, which will allow licensees to practice independently. The bill authorizes the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to promulgate rules defining standards and procedures for obtaining such a license. Registered acupuncturists in Michigan will be able to apply for replacement of current registration with a full license, as soon as LARA defines these standards. In addition, grandfathering provisions will be developed. The bill prohibits unlicensed individuals from engaging in the practice of acupuncture and prohibits them from marketing themselves as an “acupuncturist” or “registered acupuncturist.”
Current registration rules are not conducive to practicing acupuncture to its fullest potential, impacting negatively the acupuncturists and the citizens of Michigan.
House Bill 4710 will bring Michigan up to par with the other 46 states which already license the acupuncture profession. It will allow Michigan acupuncturists to adhere to national standards, improve their skill sets, and develop their own independent practices. It will give the citizens of Michigan assurance that their acupuncture treatments will have a high degree of safety, performed by highly qualified practitioners. House Bill 4710 will give Michigan strategic advantage to fight the opioid crisis.
Gigi B Cristache, DAOM, R. Ac.
Vice-Chair, MiSA Legislative Committee
