The Colorado State Legislature convened on January 8, 2025, to introduce Senate Bill 32, a significant piece of legislation aimed at expanding the prescribing authority of naturopathic doctors in the state. The bill establishes a new formulary that includes a range of medications, while also setting forth stringent educational and regulatory requirements for practitioners.

The primary purpose of Senate Bill 32 is to allow registered naturopathic doctors to prescribe a broader array of medications, specifically excluding Schedule I and II controlled substances. The new formulary encompasses all legend drugs, anabolic steroids classified under Schedule III, and drugs listed under Schedules IV and V, with notable exceptions for benzodiazepines, oncological chemotherapeutics, and narcotics. This expansion is intended to enhance the treatment options available to patients seeking naturopathic care.

Key provisions of the bill stipulate that naturopathic doctors must demonstrate their qualifications through various means before they can prescribe from the new formulary. These include completing 12 hours of pharmacological continuing education, passing a pharmacology examination, or holding a valid license from another state with equivalent authority. Additionally, the bill imposes restrictions on prescribing practices, prohibiting naturopathic doctors from prescribing medications to individuals under 18 years of age, as well as antipsychotics or ketamine, unless specifically recommended by the naturopathic medicine advisory committee and approved by the director of the division of professions and occupations.

The bill also introduces new requirements for registration and renewal. Starting September 1, 2025, applicants for naturopathic doctor registration must pass a pharmacology examination, and those renewing their registration after June 1, 2026, will need to complete eight hours of continuing education in pharmacology annually.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 32 has centered on the implications of expanding prescribing authority for naturopathic doctors. Proponents argue that the bill will improve patient access to necessary medications and enhance the role of naturopathic medicine in the healthcare system. However, opponents express concerns regarding the potential risks associated with broader prescribing powers, particularly in relation to the safety and efficacy of treatments provided by naturopathic practitioners.

The economic implications of the bill could be significant, as it may lead to increased demand for naturopathic services and potentially reduce healthcare costs by providing alternative treatment options. Socially, the bill reflects a growing recognition of naturopathic medicine as a legitimate component of healthcare, which may influence public perception and acceptance of alternative therapies.

As the legislative process unfolds, the future of Senate Bill 32 remains to be seen. Its passage could mark a pivotal shift in the regulatory landscape for naturopathic medicine in Colorado, with potential ripple effects across the broader healthcare system. The bill is poised to be a focal point of discussion as stakeholders weigh the benefits of expanded access against the need for rigorous oversight and patient safety.