Eileen Halloran | Oppose HB1269

January 17, 2026 Honorable Members of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, On behalf of the members and Board of the NH Acupuncture and Asian Medicine Association (NHAAMA), we write to provide our comments on HB 1269, "An Act relative to qualifications to practice acupuncture." We respectfully request your consideration of the following: Current Text of HB 1269 (Summary): Updates the definition of NADA training. Adds a certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist (ADS) to the Board of Acupuncture Licensing. Modifies licensure requirements, including education and reciprocity standards for acupuncturists. Changes the requirements for supervision of ADS by licensed acupuncturists. NHAAMA's Proposed Changes: Part 1 - On definition of NADA training: Accept as written. Part 2 - On addition of ADS member to the board: Accept as written, with a preference to increase board membership to six. Alternatively, if the board remains at five, replace one Acupuncture seat with an ADS seat. Part 3 - On licensure requirements and reciprocity: Strike the undergraduate degree-specific language, as the burden of that detail already is a pre-requisite of the post-secondary acupuncture school Specify that applicants must show proof of completion from a post-secondary acupuncture school, or hold a current, valid license from another state whose requirements are substantially equal to or exceed NH's. Update references from NCCAOM to NCBAHM to reflect the national board's new name and clarify that board certification by examination is required. Part 4 - On supervision requirements: Do not adopt the proposed change; retain the existing language regarding general supervision of ADS by licensed New Hampshire acupuncturists. Summary Rationale: NHAAMA supports efforts that maintain high standards for acupuncture practice while improving efficiency and reciprocity with other states. Our proposed changes clarify licensure pathways, align terminology with national standards, and ensure ongoing public safety. Retaining the current supervision language for ADS will encourage collaboration and ensure adequate oversight as participation increases across the state. Please see the attached Addendum for additional research and background supporting our position. Respectfully, Eileen M. Halloran Qi of Life Acupuncture Nashua, NH 2026 NHAAMA Board Jody Bell, Vice President