SB508 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Gerald H. AllenSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Acupuncturists, licensure and regulations, penalties

Summary

This bill would create a formal licensing and regulation system for acupuncturists in Alabama and tighten penalties for unlicensed practice.

What This Bill Does

It would authorizes the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners to license and regulate acupuncturists, set examination rules, and require licensing to practice beginning January 1, 2013. It would prohibit unlicensed acupuncture, require background checks, English proficiency, appropriate education, and liability insurance, and require annual license renewal with fees. It would provide disciplinary tools and penalties for violations, including fines, license suspensions or revocations, and injunctive relief to stop unlicensed practice.

Who It Affects

• People who want to practice acupuncture in Alabama: must meet education, exam, background check, and licensing requirements to legally provide services.
• Consumers and the public: will be protected by licensed practitioners and board oversight, with available disciplinary actions for violations.

Key Provisions

• Authorization for the Board to license and regulate acupuncturists, establish standards, examinations, and record keeping; licensing to begin in 2013.
• Establishment of penalties and enforcement: unlicensed practice illegal with penalties; license discipline including suspension, revocation, and injunctions; background checks and fees.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Licenses and Licensing