<section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-101" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Acupuncture” means a form of health care based on East Asian medical theories of energetic physiology that describe the interrelationship of the body organs and functions.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Auricular detoxification” means an acupuncture technique involving the needling of the external auricle of the human ear for the purpose of assisting a person who is undergoing detoxification to remove addictive substances from the body and restoring health.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Board” means the State Acupuncture Board.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“License” means, unless the context requires otherwise, a license issued by the Board to practice acupuncture.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>“Practice acupuncture” means the use of East Asian medical therapies for the purpose of normalizing energetic physiological functions including pain control, and for the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Practice acupuncture” includes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Stimulation of the body by the insertion of needles;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The application of moxibustion; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Manual, mechanical, thermal, electrical, or other East Asian medical therapies only when performed in accordance with the principles of East Asian medical theories and practices.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Supervision” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>A formalized professional relationship between a licensed acupuncturist and an individual performing auricular detoxification that provides evaluation and direction of the individual to adequately ensure the safety and welfare of clients during the course of treatment; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>As defined by the Board in regulations:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Periodic direct supervision where the licensed acupuncturist is present or on–site during treatment; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>General supervision where the licensed acupuncturist is neither present nor on–site during treatment.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-102" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>This title does not limit the right of an individual to practice a health occupation that the individual is authorized to practice under this article.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>This title does not limit the right of a physician authorized under Title 14 of this article to perform acupuncture as it is defined in that title.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>This title does not limit a dentist licensed under Title 4 of this article who is authorized to perform acupuncture in connection with the practice of dentistry.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>This title does not limit a veterinarian licensed under the Agriculture Article who performs acupuncture on animals in connection with the practice of veterinary medicine.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-201" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="State Acupuncture Board"> <text>There is a State Acupuncture Board in the Department.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-202" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="State Acupuncture Board"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board consists of seven members appointed by the Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Of the seven members:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Five shall be licensed acupuncturists appointed from a list submitted as provided in subsection (c) of this section; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Two shall be consumer members.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Each acupuncturist member shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Be a resident of the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>For at least 5 years immediately before appointment have been engaged in the practice of acupuncture in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>For each vacancy of an acupuncture member, the Board shall compile a list of names to be submitted to the Governor in the following manner:</text> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall notify all licensed acupuncturists in the State of the vacancy to solicit nominations to fill the vacancy;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Each professional association of acupuncturists in the State shall nominate at least one person for every two vacancies that exist; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Each educational institution that provides acupuncture training in the State shall nominate at least one person for every two vacancies that exist.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The consumer members:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Shall be members of the general public;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>May not be or ever have been an acupuncturist or in training to become an acupuncturist;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>May not have a household member who is an acupuncturist or in training to become an acupuncturist;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>May not participate or ever have participated in a commercial or professional field related to acupuncture;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>May not have a household member who participates in a commercial or professional field related to acupuncture; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>May not have had within 2 years before appointment a substantial financial interest in a person regulated by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>While a member of the Board, the consumer member may not have a substantial financial interest in a person regulated by the Board.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Before taking office, each appointee to the Board shall take the oath required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of a member is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on July 1, 1994.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member may not serve more than two consecutive full terms.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Governor may remove a member for incompetence or misconduct.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-203" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="State Acupuncture Board"> <text>From among its members, the Board shall elect officers in a manner and for terms that the Board determines.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-204" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="State Acupuncture Board"> <level label="a"> <text>A majority of the full authorized membership of the Board is a quorum.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall meet at least once every 3 months, at the times and places that it determines.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Each member of the Board is entitled to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Compensation in accordance with the budget of the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Reimbursement for expenses at a rate determined by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Board may employ a staff in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-205" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="State Acupuncture Board"> <level label="a"> <text>In addition to the powers set forth elsewhere in this title, the Board may adopt:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Regulations to carry out the provisions of this title; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A code of ethics for licensees.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In addition to the duties set forth elsewhere in this title, the Board shall keep:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Records and minutes necessary for the orderly conduct of business; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A list of each currently licensed acupuncturist.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In addition to the duties set forth elsewhere in this title, the Board shall investigate any alleged violation of this title.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-206" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="State Acupuncture Board"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an Acupuncture Board Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board may set reasonable fees for the issuance and renewal of licenses and its other services.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Funds to cover the compensation and expenses of the Board members shall be generated by fees set under this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall pay all fees collected under the provisions of this title to the Comptroller of the State.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Comptroller shall distribute the fees to the Acupuncture Board Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund shall be used exclusively to cover the actual documented direct and indirect costs of fulfilling the statutory and regulatory duties of the Board as provided by the provisions of this title.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The Fund is a continuing, nonlapsing fund, not subject to § 7-302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Any unspent portions of the Fund may not be transferred or revert to the General Fund of the State, but shall remain in the Fund to be used for the purposes specified in this title.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Legislative Auditor shall audit the accounts and transactions of the Fund as provided in § 2-1220 of the State Government Article.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>A designee of the Board shall administer the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Moneys in the Fund may be expended only for a lawful purpose authorized under this article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-207" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="State Acupuncture Board"> <text>A person shall have immunity from the liability described under § 5–724 of the Courts Article for giving information to the Board or otherwise participating in its activities.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-301" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this title or §§ 10–14A–03 or 10–14B–03 of the State Government Article, an individual shall be licensed by the Board before the individual may practice acupuncture in this State.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>This section does not apply to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>An individual employed by the federal government as an acupuncturist while practicing within the scope of that employment;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A student, trainee, or visiting teacher who is designated as a student, trainee, or visiting teacher while participating in a course of study or training under the supervision of a licensed acupuncturist in a program that is approved by the Board or the State Board of Higher Education; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>An individual authorized under § 1A-316 of this subtitle to perform auricular detoxification under the direct supervision of an acupuncturist licensed by the Board.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-302" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>To qualify for a license, an applicant shall be an individual who meets the requirements of this section.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The applicant shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Be of good moral character;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Be at least 18 years old;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Demonstrate competence in performing acupuncture by meeting the following standards for education or training:</text> <level label="i"> <text>If the applicant is issued a license on or before May 31, 2026:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Graduation from at least a master’s level program or its equivalent in acupuncture that is:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>Approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine; or</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>Found by the Board to be equivalent to a course approved or accredited under item A or B of this item; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Achievement of a:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>Diplomate in acupuncture from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine; or</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>Passing score on an examination that is determined by the Board to be equivalent to the examination given by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If the applicant is issued a license on or after June 1, 2026:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Graduation from at least a master’s level program or its equivalent in acupuncture that is:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>Approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine; or</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>Found by the Board to be equivalent to a course approved or accredited under item A or B of this item; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Achievement of a passing score on an examination given by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine or determined by the Board to be equivalent to the examination given by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine;</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Beginning July 1, 2027, submit to a criminal history records check in accordance with § 1A–302.1 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Demonstrate the ability to communicate in the English language; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Meet any other qualifications that the Board establishes in regulations.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-302.1" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Central Repository” means the Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An applicant shall apply to the Central Repository for a State and national criminal history records check.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>As part of the application for a criminal history records check, an applicant shall complete and submit to the Central Repository:</text> <level label="1"> <text>A complete set of legible fingerprints taken in a format approved by the Director of the Central Repository and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The fee authorized under § 10–221(b)(7) of the Criminal Procedure Article for access to Maryland criminal history records; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The mandatory processing fee required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history records check.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>In accordance with §§ 10–201 through 10–229 of the Criminal Procedure Article, the Central Repository shall forward to the Board and the individual the individual’s criminal history record information.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Information obtained from the Central Repository under this section:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Is confidential;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>May not be redisseminated; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>May be used only for the licensing purpose authorized by this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The subject of a criminal history records check under this section may contest the contents of the criminal history record information issued by the Central Repository as provided in § 10–223 of the Criminal Procedure Article.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>If criminal history record information is reported to the Central Repository after the date of the initial criminal history records check, the Central Repository shall provide to the Board and the individual revised criminal history record information for the individual.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-303" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <text>To apply for a license, an applicant shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Submit an application to the Board on the form that the Board requires; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Pay to the Board the application fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-304" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <text>The Board shall issue a license to any applicant who meets the requirements of this title and the regulations adopted by the Board under this title.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-305" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this title, a license authorizes the licensee to practice acupuncture while the license is effective.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-306" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall provide for the term and renewal of licenses under this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The term of a license may not be more than 3 years.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A license expires at the end of its term, unless the license is renewed for a term as provided by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>At least 1 month before the license expires, the Board shall send to the licensee, by electronic means or first–class mail to the last known electronic or physical address of the licensee, a renewal notice that states:</text> <level label="1"> <text>The date on which the current license expires;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The date by which the renewal application must be received by the Board for the renewal to be issued and mailed before the license expires; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The amount of the renewal fee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Before the license expires, the licensee periodically may renew it for an additional term, if the licensee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Otherwise is entitled to be licensed;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Pays to the Board a renewal fee set by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Submits to the Board:</text> <level label="i"> <text>A renewal application on the form that the Board requires;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Satisfactory evidence of compliance with any continuing education requirements set under this section for license renewal; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>For individuals licensed before January 1, 2028, satisfactory evidence of a criminal history records check in accordance with § 1A–302.1 of this subtitle for the licensee’s first renewal after January 1, 2028.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>In addition to any other qualifications and requirements established by the Board, the Board may establish continuing education requirements as a condition to the renewal of licenses under this section.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The Board shall renew the license of and make available proof of renewal to each licensee who meets the requirements of this section.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>An acupuncturist has a grace period of 30 days after the acupuncturist’s license expires in which to renew it retroactively, if the acupuncturist:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Otherwise is entitled to have the license renewed; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Pays to the Board the renewal fee and any late fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>A licensee may advertise only as permitted by regulations adopted by the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-307" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Board shall place a licensee on inactive status if the licensee submits to the Board:</text> <level label="i"> <text>An application for inactive status on the form required by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The inactive status fee set by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Board may not place a licensee on inactive status for more than 6 years.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall reactivate a license to an individual who is on inactive status if the individual complies with the renewal requirements that exist at the time the individual changes from inactive to active status.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board may reinstate the license of a former licensee who has failed to renew the license for any reason if the former licensee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Meets the continuing education requirements of § 1A–306 of this subtitle for each year that the license has lapsed;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Applies for reinstatement more than 30 days after the license renewal deadline;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Submits to the Board an application for reinstatement on the form required by the Board;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Pays to the Board a reinstatement fee and a renewal fee set by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Submits to a criminal history records check in accordance with § 1A–302.1 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Board may not assess the reinstatement fee required under subsection (c) of this section on an individual who has been on inactive status for more than 6 years if the individual can provide documentation of maintaining an active license in another state.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>An individual who has been previously licensed by the Board shall obtain a license only by means of license renewal or reinstatement as provided in this article and in regulations adopted by the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-308" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>Unless the Board agrees to accept the surrender of a license, a licensee may not surrender the license nor may the license lapse by operation of law while the licensee is under investigation or while charges are pending against the licensee.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board may set conditions on its agreement with the licensee under investigation or against whom charges are pending to accept surrender of the license.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-309" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <text>Subject to the hearing provisions of § 1A-310 of this subtitle, the Board, on the affirmative vote of a majority of its full authorized membership, may deny a license to practice acupuncture to any applicant, reprimand any licensee, place any licensee on probation, or suspend or revoke a license if the licensee:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Fraudulently or deceptively obtains or attempts to obtain a license for the applicant or licensee or for another;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Fraudulently or deceptively:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Uses a license; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Solicits or advertises;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Is guilty of immoral or unprofessional conduct in the practice of acupuncture;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Is professionally, physically, or mentally incompetent;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Provides professional services while:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Under the influence of alcohol; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Using any narcotic or controlled dangerous substance, as defined in § 5-101 of the Criminal Law Article, or other drug that is in excess of therapeutic amounts or without a valid medical indication;</text> </level> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Knowingly violates any provision of this title or any rule or regulation of the Board adopted under this title;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>Is convicted of or pleads guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or to a crime involving moral turpitude, whether or not any appeal or other proceeding is pending to have the conviction or plea set aside;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>Practices acupuncture with an unauthorized person or assists an unauthorized person in the practice of acupuncture;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>Is disciplined by the licensing or disciplinary authority of any state or country or convicted or disciplined by a court of any state or country for an act that would be grounds for disciplinary action under this section;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>Willfully makes or files a false report or record in the practice of acupuncture;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>Willfully fails to file or record any report as required by law, willfully impedes or obstructs the filing or recording of the report, or induces another to fail to file or record the report;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>Submits a false statement to collect a fee;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>Refuses, withholds from, denies, or discriminates against an individual with regard to the provision of professional services for which the person is licensed and qualified to render because the individual is HIV positive;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>Fails to display the notice required under § 1A-313 of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>Fails to cooperate with a lawful investigation conducted by the Board;</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>Commits any act of gross negligence, incompetence, or misconduct in the practice of acupuncture;</text> </level> <level label="17"> <text>Engages in a course of conduct that is inconsistent with generally accepted professional standards in the practice of acupuncture; or</text> </level> <level label="18"> <text>Fails to comply with any Board order.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-310" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in the Administrative Procedure Act, before the Board takes any action under § 1A-309 of this subtitle, it shall give the individual against whom the action is contemplated an opportunity for a hearing before the Board.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall give notice and hold the hearing in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The individual may be represented at the hearing by counsel.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Over the signature of an officer or the administrator of the Board, the Board may issue subpoenas and administer oaths in connection with any investigation under this title and any hearings or proceedings before it.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>If, after due notice, the individual against whom the action is contemplated fails or refuses to appear, the Board may hear and determine the matter.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>If, after a hearing, an individual is found in violation of § 1A-309 of this subtitle, the individual shall pay the costs of the hearing as specified in a regulation adopted by the Board.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-310.1" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>If after a hearing under § 1A–310 of this subtitle the Board finds that there are grounds under § 1A–309 of this subtitle to place any licensee on probation, reprimand any licensee, or suspend or revoke a license, the Board may impose a penalty not exceeding $5,000:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Instead of placing the licensee on probation, reprimanding the licensee, or suspending or revoking the license; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In addition to placing the licensee on probation, reprimanding the licensee, or suspending or revoking the license.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall adopt regulations to set standards for the imposition of penalties under this section.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board shall pay any money collected under this section into the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-311" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in this section for an action under § 1A–309 of this subtitle, any person aggrieved by a final decision of the Board in a contested case, as defined by the Administrative Procedure Act, may petition for judicial review as allowed by the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Any person aggrieved by a final decision of the Board under § 1A–309 of this subtitle may not appeal to the Secretary but may take a direct judicial appeal as provided by the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-312" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <text>On the application of an individual whose license has been suspended or revoked, the Board, on the affirmative vote of a majority of its full authorized membership, may reinstate a suspended or revoked license.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-313" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <text>If an acupuncturist is engaged in the private practice of acupuncture in this State, the acupuncturist shall display the notice developed under § 1-207 of this article conspicuously in each office where the acupuncturist is engaged in practice.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-314" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>An action may be maintained in the name of the State or the Board to enjoin:</text> <level label="1"> <text>The unauthorized practice of acupuncture; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Conduct that is a ground for disciplinary action under § 1A-309 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An action under this section may be brought by:</text> <level label="1"> <text>The Board, in its own name;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General, in the name of the State; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A State’s Attorney, in the name of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>An action under this section shall be brought in the county where the defendant:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Resides; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Engages in the act sought to be enjoined.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Proof of actual damage or that any person will sustain any damage if an injunction is not granted is not required for an action under this section.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>An action under this section is in addition to and not instead of criminal prosecution for the unauthorized practice of acupuncture under § 1A-401 of this title or disciplinary action under § 1A-309 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-314.1" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <text>The Board may issue a cease and desist order or obtain injunctive relief for a violation of any provision of § 1A–401 or § 1A–402 of this title.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-315" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>While investigating an allegation against a licensee under this title, the Board may require the licensee to submit to an appropriate examination by a health care provider designated by the Board if the Board has reason to believe that the licensee may cause harm to a person.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In return for the privilege given to a licensee to practice acupuncture in the State, the licensee is deemed to have:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Consented to submit to an examination under this section, if requested by the Board in writing; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Waived any claim of privilege as to the testimony or report of a health care provider who examines the licensee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The failure or refusal of the licensee to submit to an examination required under this section is prima facie evidence of the licensee’s inability to practice acupuncture competently, unless the Board finds that the failure or refusal was beyond the control of the licensee.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Board shall pay the cost of any examination made under this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-316" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Licensing"> <level label="a"> <text>An acupuncturist licensed by the Board may provide supervision to as many individuals performing auricular detoxification as permitted by Board regulations, if each individual:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Is:</text> <level label="i"> <text>An alcohol, substance abuse, or chemical dependency counselor who is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Certified under Title 17, Subtitle 4 of this article to practice as a certified professional counselor–alcohol and drug, certified associate counselor–alcohol and drug, or certified supervised counselor–alcohol and drug; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Licensed to practice clinical alcohol and drug counseling or clinical professional counseling under Title 17, Subtitle 3 of this article;</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A nurse licensed to practice under Title 8, Subtitle 3 of this article;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>A psychologist licensed to practice under Title 18, Subtitle 3 of this article who works directly with the alcohol– or drug–addicted clients of a chemical dependency program in the counseling or treatment of those clients; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>A licensed certified social worker–clinical licensed to practice under Title 19, Subtitle 3 of this article who works directly with the alcohol– or drug–addicted clients of a chemical dependency program in the counseling or treatment of those clients;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Provides documentation to the Board of the successful completion of a training program in acupuncture for the treatment of alcoholism, substance abuse, or chemical dependency that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Is approved by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Meets or exceeds the standards of the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association;</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Does not represent to the public, by description of services, methods, or procedures, or otherwise, that the individual is authorized to practice acupuncture in this State;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Agrees to be subject to the Board for any violation of § 1A–309 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Performs auricular detoxification only:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Within the context of a clinical substance abuse program;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In hospitals, prisons, outpatient clinics, or other settings approved by the Board; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>Under the supervision of an acupuncturist licensed by the State.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Board shall adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this section, including regulations that cover:</text> <level label="1"> <text>The qualifications, training, and monitoring of individuals who perform auricular detoxification under the supervision of an acupuncturist licensed by the Board;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The number of individuals performing auricular detoxification to which an acupuncturist licensed by the Board may provide supervision; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The requirements for the approval of a clinical substance abuse program or a setting where an individual may perform auricular detoxification under the supervision of an acupuncturist licensed by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this section, an individual may not practice, attempt to practice, or offer to practice auricular detoxification in this State.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An acupuncturist who is licensed by the Board is responsible for assuring the Board that the individual performing auricular detoxification under the supervision of the acupuncturist complies with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards of practice.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If the individual performing auricular detoxification under this section violates any applicable laws, regulations, or standards of practice, the Board may discipline:</text> <level label="i"> <text>The individual performing auricular detoxification; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The supervising acupuncturist licensed by the Board for unprofessional conduct under § 1A-309 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-401" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Prohibited Acts; Penalties"> <text>Except as provided in this title, a person may not practice, attempt to practice, or offer to practice acupuncture in this State unless licensed by the Board.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-402" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Prohibited Acts; Penalties"> <level label="a"> <text>Unless authorized to practice acupuncture under this title, a person may not represent to the public, by description of services, methods, or procedures, or otherwise, that the person is authorized to practice acupuncture in this State.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Unless authorized to practice acupuncture under this title, a person may not use the words or terms “acupuncturist”, “licensed acupuncturist”, “L.Ac.”, or any other words, letters, or symbols with the intent to represent that the person is authorized to practice acupuncture.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-403" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Prohibited Acts; Penalties"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this title, a person may not:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Employ an individual to practice acupuncture without a license; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Aid or abet the unauthorized practice of acupuncture in violation of § 1A–401 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-404" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Prohibited Acts; Penalties"> <level label="a"> <text>A person who violates § 1A–401 or § 1A–402 of this subtitle is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>Guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or both; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Subject to a civil fine not to exceed $50,000 to be assessed by the Board in accordance with regulations adopted by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A person who violates § 1A–403 of this subtitle is:</text> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>For a first offense, guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>For a subsequent offense, guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 per day or imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or both; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Subject to a civil fine not to exceed $10,000 to be assessed by the Board in accordance with regulations adopted by the Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Board shall remit any penalty collected under this section into the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-501" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Short Title; Termination of Title"> <text>This title may be cited as the “Maryland Acupuncture Act”.</text> </section> <section article="gho" article_name="Health Occupations" number="1A-502" title_number="1A" title_name="Acupuncturists" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Short Title; Termination of Title"> <text>Subject to the evaluation and reestablishment provisions of the Maryland Program Evaluation Act, this title and all rules and regulations adopted under this title shall terminate and be of no effect after July 1, 2030.</text> </section>