Wyoming Naturopaths Clash Over House Bill 269 Amid Calls for Licensure and Standards

The Wyoming House Labor, Health & Social Services Committee convened on January 27, 2025, to discuss House Bill 269, which proposes the licensure of naturopathic doctors in the state. The meeting featured a range of testimonies from practitioners, highlighting both support and opposition to the bill.

Supporters of the bill, including Dr. Jessica White from Cheyenne, argued that licensing naturopathic doctors would enhance healthcare access for Wyoming residents, particularly in rural areas where there is a shortage of medical professionals. Dr. White emphasized that licensed naturopathic doctors could alleviate the burden on the healthcare system and provide essential services without requiring patients to travel out of state for care.

Conversely, several practitioners voiced strong opposition to the bill. Dr. April Martinez from Rollins expressed concerns that the legislation would exclude traditional naturopathic practices, which focus on non-invasive treatments. She criticized the bill for not including input from a diverse range of Wyoming-based practitioners and warned that it could lead to a monopoly in the holistic health field, limiting consumer choice.

Dr. Dan Young, also opposing the bill, raised alarms about its potential to restrict educational opportunities and create barriers to practice. He questioned the necessity of the bill, stating that it could infringe on consumer rights and increase healthcare costs.

The committee also heard from Lexi Daugherty, representing Americans for Prosperity, who highlighted concerns about government overreach and the financial burden the new licensure could impose on practitioners. She argued that the bill could eliminate competition in the marketplace rather than protect consumers.

In contrast, Laura Farr, executive director of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, urged support for the bill, asserting that it would establish necessary educational standards for primary care providers and help differentiate between various levels of naturopathic training.

The committee's discussions reflect a significant divide among practitioners regarding the future of naturopathic medicine in Wyoming. As the debate continues, the implications of House Bill 269 could reshape the landscape of healthcare options available to residents, particularly in rural communities. The committee has yet to make a decision on the bill, and further discussions are anticipated in the coming weeks.