Previous Reports

IOWA

Iowa Health Freedom Coalition is hosting a public meeting
Sunday, June 7, 2009
1:30 – 3:30 PM (The main doors open at 1:00. will begin promptly at 1:30)
Johnston Public Library
6700 Merle Hay Road
Johnston, IA
(515) 278-5233

As we shape our activities for the upcoming year, many have expressed a strong desire
to help with the many heath freedom issues and opportunities all of us now face.
            This meeting will gather those who ‘hear the calling’ to devote their time, energy and expertise to health freedom, or who just want to learn more.  We will brainstorm about how the IHFC can serve the state and nation to fulfill our mission to open the doors to approaches to wellness through the natural healing arts.
            Come join us at this very important meeting:
· To briefly celebrate the many accomplishments
· To discuss goals and leadership strategies for the upcoming year.
            As we work together, we all can become more effective representatives for healthcare in
the state of Iowa.
            Respectfully Yours,
Iowa Health Freedom Coalition Council
            If you are unable to attend, please send us your ideas at info@iowahealthfreedom.org
You can visit our website at : http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org to learn more about
health freedom and the Iowa Access to Wellness Act.

 

 

TEXAS

Colleagues and Friends of Texas Health Freedom,
A week from tomorrow (June 2nd), barring the Governor calling a special session, the 81st Texas Legislature will adjourn. If you have been following the proceedings, you know that the Legislature is working virtually non-stop, even today, to act on the huge number of bills that remain to be dealt with.
            One of the little known operating rules of the legislature is that a bill need only be heard (not approved!) in committee to be attached, in whole or in part, as an amendment to another bill. That means that, although HB 3528 has been left pending in committee, it could still show up as an amendment to another bill. We strongly believe the Texas Dietetic Association has been working very hard to accomplish just that.
            Our legislative watch committee has been keeping a watchful eye on HB 3528, and so far nothing has occurred, but that doesn't mean it couldn't slip through during this final week. So that's why we need your help.
            Please call the capitol offices in Austin of your own Texas state senator and Texas state representative (NOT members of Congress!) today. If you don't know who to call, log onto  ww.texashealthfreedom.com and complete the "Who Represents Me?" block in the upper left corner of the home page. Scroll down to Texas state senator and Texas state representative. Call the Austin office of the first name listed in each category.
            After identifying yourself as a constituent, tell whoever answers the phone, "Please tell Rep./Sen. (Blank) to oppose ANY amendment to any bill that includes language from HB 3528."
            That's all it takes. Your response so far in helping us deflect HB 3528 has been superb. Please help us this one last time to protect YOUR health freedom of choice.
            Thanks for your support of Texas Health Freedom,
Peter McCarthy, Coalition Chair

 

 WISCONSIN

            A Senate hearing on SB115 http://www.legis.state.wi.us/2009/data/SB-115.pdf could be any day with a 24 hour notice.  For the last hearing in February 2008 we were given a 3 day notice. The WDA is cranking up the pressure so a 24 hour notice could be a reality.  We are sending out a notification to let everyone know they may have to drive to Madison on short notice for the hearing.
            The greatest impact on lawmakers:
* Your clients and customers testifying that low cost, safe alternative dietary methods work and improved their quality of life after years of chronic illness.
* Testifying that registered dietitian nutritional advice produced no results and alternative nutrition advice worked, chronic illness treated by drugs were elevated by alternative dietary changes, etc. This a consumer health right to choose issue.
            Practitioners testifying are viewed as a vested interest by lawmakers and are encouraged to attend with clients. See for more info: http://wihfc.com/WDA_legislation.htm
            To view the February 2008 Assembly hearing on Dietary Licensing go to:
http://www.wiseye.org/wisEye_programming/ARCHIVES-committees.html
Scroll way down to:
02.05.08 | Assembly Committee on Health and Healthcare Reform
and click 'Watch'
Fast fwd the video to 2 hours and 19 minutes in.  That is where testimony begins on AB742.

 

 

 

STATE HEALTH FREEDOM ORGANIZATIONS:

 

COLORADO

Colorado For Health Freedom  - www.co4hf.synthasite.com – kimberlysharples@msn.com       

 

CONNECTICUT

Connecticut Health Freedom Coalition -  crepasz@hotmail.com

 

IDAHO

Natural Health Idaho -  www.naturalhealthidaho.org - info@naturalhealthidaho.org

IOWA

Iowa Health Freedom Coalition - http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org - info@iowahealthfreedom.org

 

LOUISIANA
Louisiana Health Freedom Coalition - www.lhfc.info - herbs-etc@cox.net

MARYLAND
Dr. Lakshmi C. Mishra: 301 762 8262
             

MASSACHUSETTS
Health Freedom Massachusetts - http://www.healthfreedommassachusetts.org/

        

MICHIGAN

Michigan Natural Health Coalition - http://www.mnhc.info/ -  mnhcinfo@yahoo.com

 

MINNESOTA    
 MNACAP - www.mnacap.org - katie@MNACAP.org

        

MONTANA
Montana Health Freedom - www.montanahealthfreedom.org  - deb@debkimmet.com
             

NEW MEXICO

NMCAAMP - www.nmcaamp.org  - wwerner@ayurveda.com

 

NORTH CAROLINA
North Carolina Citizens for Healthcare Freedom - www.ncchf.org
             

OHIO

Ohio Health Freedom Coalition – www.ohiohealthfreedom.org - info@ohiohealthfreedom.org

Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition - www.ohiohealthfreedom.info - hertouch@juno.com 

          

OKLAHOMA

Health Freedom Action Network - http://www.oklahomahealthfreedom.org - information@oklahomahealthfreedom.org

 

OREGON

Oregon Health Freedom - www.oregonhealthfreedom.org -  john@oregonhealthfreedom.org

 

TEXAS

Texas Health Freedom - www.texashealthfreedom.com              

VIRGINIA

Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals - www.cnhpva.org -

             

WASHINGTON STATE
Washington Health Freedom - http://healthfreedomwa.org/ - healthfreedom.wa@gmail.com

           

WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Health Freedom Coalition - http://wihfc.com - synchaa@gmail.com

     

 

UPDATES FOR MAY 2009

ALASKA
Alaska has introduced a Naturopathic Physician bill, SB70: http://www.aksenate.org/index.php?bill=SB70

For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org.

CALIFORNIA
Prop 65 is proposed regulation that wants to classify all beneficial nutrients with above-RDA potencies as cancer-causing agents under unless proven otherwise.
For more information, please go to this website: http://www.thenhf.com/press_releases/pr_12_may_2008.html

There is also California Health Freedom Coalition: www.californiahealthfreedom.com and
California Citizens for Health Freedom: www.citizenshealth.org or email: frank@citizenshealth.org.

COLORADO
From Colorado For Health Freedom

We were successful in defeating the monopolistic naturopathic physician bill, HB 1175, in Colorado.

For more information, please visit our website: www.co4hf.synthasite.com, join our yahoogroup by sending a blank email to: CO4HFG-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or you can also contact Kimberly Sharples at kimberlysharples@msn.com  or 719-390-1979 for more information.

CONNECTICUT

Connecticut Health Freedom Coalition – Craig Respasz – crepasz@hotmail.com

DELAWARE
From American Association for Health Freedom:

http://www.healthfreedom.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=710&Itemid=

Help Preserve Choice in Nutritional Therapy in Delaware

After a state legislature passes a new law, regulations are drawn up which dictate how that legislation is applied and carried out. Right now, Delaware is creating regulations for its Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensure Act.

Over the past several years, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has been pressing state legislatures to accept registrations only from ADA’s credentialing arm to satisfy the state’s nutritionist licensing requirements. Meanwhile, qualified professionals who hold a current certificate from other established credentialing agencies are unable to practice nutritional therapy in that state.

And that is what is happening in Delaware. As currently proposed, highly qualified professionals whose credentials are from other agencies will be prohibited from practicing nutritional therapy in Delaware. AAHF believes the restrictive language in these regulations not only misinterprets the legislation, but will create a monopoly for the ADA.

At a minimum, we are requesting that the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS) be included in the Delaware regulations as a credentialing agency. This will protect the consumer’s right to choose from whom they receive their information and advice, and will ensure that competent, highly qualified professionals have the right to practice nutritional therapy. The education, internship, and exam requirements of CBNS actually exceed the standards set by the Delaware Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensure Act.

HAWAII
House bill 1196 has been introduced. This bill has amendments to the Naturopathic Physician Act. For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org or view information at: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2009/lists/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1196

IDAHO
Idaho has a bill, S1014 that will repeal the Naturopathic Physician Licensing Act. This has passed the Senate and is now in the House. For more information about Idaho, contact Boyd at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org or info@naturalhealthidaho.org. You can also visit the website for Idaho CNH at: www.naturalhealthidaho.org.

ILLINOIS
HR0095 creates a task force on the licensure of Naturopathic Physicians: http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=0095&GAID=10&GA=96&DocTypeID=HR&LegID=44565&SessionID=76

This bill passed the House on April 22^nd.

For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

IOWA
From Iowa Health Freedom Coalition: Our work for 2009 has already begun. Our website improvements include a PayPal button that will make donating or renewing membership a breeze. Check it out at: http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org/join.html.

Our email: info@iowahealthfreedom.org

MARYLAND
Alternative Health care bill HB 1380 was introduced, but unfortunately did not pass this year.

If you are interested in protecting health freedom, please contact Dr. Mishra at 301 762 8262, www.lcmishra.com or mishra13505@yahoo.com

MISSOURI
The Coalition for Natural Health was able to stop attempts made to attach amendments to bills moving through legislature last year. House Bill 750 has been introduced and relates to the practice of naturopathic medicine: http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills091/biltxt/intro/HB0750I.htm.
This passed in the House Committee on April 8^th. The next hearing has not yet been scheduled.
For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org.

NEVADA
SB 69 creates the Board of Complementary Integrative Medical Examiners: http://www.leg.state.nv.us/75th2009/Bills/SB/SB69.pdf.

For more information contact Boyd Landry: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org.

NEW MEXICO
A Health Freedom bill, HB 664, has been passed in New Mexico.

For more information, contact Wynn Werner - wwerner@ayurveda.com or the NMCAAMP website at www.nmcaamp.org

NORTH CAROLINA

From North Carolina Citizens for Healthcare Freedom:

THE HEARING FOR OUR BILL (H824) HAS BEEN RE-SCHEDULED TO APRIL 30th, 2009… PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND IF YOU CAN! READ THE TEXT OF THE BILL HERE:

http://www.ncchf.org/our-bill/

Citizens For Healthcare Freedom (CHF) has been working to protect your rights to natural and complementary healthcare in North Carolina since 1995. This year, CHF will be working with North Carolina legislators to pass the Consumer Health Freedom Act.

What is the Consumer Health Freedom Act? An amendment to the NC medical licensing law to protect the right to choose nutritional supplements and access alternative, holistic, complementary, or natural health providers or practitioners. The legislation would protect the right of health care providers to offer their services legally and safely, without fear of being prosecuted for "practicing medicine without a license" in NC.

For more information on this proposed legislation and CHF, visit: www.ncchf.org.

Support us! It's imperative we raise funds immediately to cover the costs and expenses needed to pass The Consumer Health Freedom Act in the 2009-2010 Legislative Session. CHF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization supported solely by membership dues and donations. All donations are 100% tax deductible. Please support our vision of a health freedom state and a sustainable community by becoming a CHF member or by making a donation. To join or contribute with a credit card, visit our website: www.ncchf.org.

OHIO
There are 2 health freedom organizations in OHIO: The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition (www.ohiohealthfreedom.org) and the Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition.

1. The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition was originally formed in 2004; OHFC is a nonprofit organization that advocates for changing Ohio law to allow for greater access to complementary and alternative health care services. OHFC’s members believe that complementary and alternative health care options should be available to members of the public, that citizens should have the freedom to select the practitioner who delivers them and that the state should not prohibit access to natural health services.

Just in time for the New Year the Ohio Institute of Energetic Studies & Bodywork is hosting a FREE Holistic Health Expo in Cleveland, Ohio and Columbus, Ohio. Come out and meet our Executive Director, Sara Donlon. For more information or questions regarding the Ohio Health Freedom Coalition please call: (614) 888-7351.

2. Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition (www.ohiosunshinehealthfreedom.info). To learn more, please contact Linda Murray (hertouch@juno.com).

OKLAHOMA
Health Freedom Action Network: contact information: information@oklahomahealthfreedom.org or their website: http://www.oklahomahealthfreedom.org.

OREGON
Oregon Health Freedom Website: www.oregonhealthfreedom.org or
email: john@oregonhealthfreedom.org.

TENNESSEE
HB 722 (http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB072 )  and 
HB 723 (http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0723 ) are bills pertaining to naturopathy.  For more information, please contact Boyd Landry at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

TEXAS

Message from Texas Health Freedom:  www.texashealthfreedom.com

The Texas House Public Health Committee announced that HB 3528, the dietitians' exclusionary licensing bill, will be heard on Tuesday, April 28th. The hearing will commence at 8AM in room E2.012 at the state capitol.
If passed, HB 3528 will prohibit anyone but a dietitian or MD from speaking about nutrition in their practice. Health freedom of choice in Texas would be destroyed, it's that simple.
Your Coalition leadership is fielding a strong slate of witnesses to oppose the bill. You may attend the hearing and testify yourself if you wish. Whether you do or not, we need your help to ensure we will be successful.

Testimony was heard on the Health Freedom bill, HB 40, – but a vote has not been taken in the Committee. Check the website for more information http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=81R&Bill=HB40

VIRGINIA
Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals

HB1744 Natural Health Care Providers bill (Health Freedom Bill) has been tabled by the Health, Welfare and Institutions committee. For more information, please contact Virginians for Health Freedom, a project of the Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals
P.O. Box 316, Chesterfield, VA 23832-0005 www.cnhpva.org

WASHINGTON STATE
There are several bills in Washington:

HB 1638 refers to Colon Hydrotherapy: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1638&year=2009

HB 2007 pertains to Naturopathic Doctors:
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=2004&year=2009

For information on these bills, contact Boyd Landry boydlandry@naturalhealth.org.

Health Freedom: The bill was heard on the Senate floor on Friday, January 30. It has been assigned a number: Senate Bill 5755 2009-10. The best way to easily stay updated is to use the following website address: www.leg.wa.gov/legislature and use the "Bill Search" tab near the top of the page (enter 5755).

According to the website: The "short title" of our bill is "Concerning alternative health care practitioners" In reading SB5755 as it is posted on the website, Section 1 says: "This act may be known and cited as the health care choice act."; The direct-access URL is: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=5755&year=2009.

After the bill was heard, it was referred to the Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee. The next step for our bill is that it will have to be scheduled for a hearing before the H&LTC Committee. Senator Karen Kaiser is the chair of this committee. Our discussions with her have not been promising; she does not intend to hear the bill. That would kill it for this session. We need to convince her to hear the bill. What people can do-call/write their senators and members of the Senate Health Committee. Contact Kaiser requesting that she hear the bill.

For more information, go to the Washington Health Freedom website: http://healthfreedomwa.org/ or email: healthfreedom.wa@gmail.com or call (360) 357-6263.

WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Health Freedom Coalition

WIHFC is a Wisconsin nonprofit 501(c) 4 lobbying organization for social justice supporting an exciting new Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act in Wisconsin in the 2009 to 2010 legislative session.

“Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act” will ensure consumer choice by providing a  “safe harbor exemption” for those doing non-licensed healing therapies as long as they follow guidelines of the bill. It also gives the consumer freedom to choose alternative practitioners and services desired. This is an exemption bill for everyone doing no harm.

WIHFC opposes the WDA  (Wisconsin Dietetic Association) licensing bill SB 115. The WDA bill would allow only licensed Dietitians trained by the ADA (American Dietetic Association) and a few other licensed professions to discuss nutrition.  We see this as a freedom of speech issue. Food must remain in the public domain

Check out website http://wihfc.com  where they have a lot of information. You can also contact Syncha Maniscalco, Director WIHFC, synchaa@gmail.com, 715-452-5544 

Please ask for permission before using material from this site.

Health Freedom Update for April 2009

 

HEALTH FREEDOM INFORMATION

 

 

ALASKA

         Alaska has introduced a Naturopathic Physician bill, SB70: http://www.aksenate.org/index.php?bill=SB70 

            For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

ARIZONA

From the National Health Federation

http://www.thenhf.com/government_affairs/state/state_60.html

Arizona Health-Freedom Proposition Narrowly Defeated
            In the recent American 2008 elections, various States had propositions on their ballots for citizen consideration and voting. In Arizona, one such proposition was Proposition 101 (the “Freedom of Choice in Health Care Act”), which was an initiative on its Nov. 4th ballot proposing to amend the Arizona Constitution to ensure freedom of choice in health plans and the right to pay privately for lawful medical services.
            Unfortunately, Proposition 101 did not pass. While Proposition 101 won in 12 out of 15 Arizona counties, it failed to pass on the Statewide popular vote by 1,048,624 to 1,039,585 votes (50.2 to 49.8 percent), a very small margin. The Proposition’s backers, Drs. Eric Novack and Jeffrey Singer, announced, "We regret that we were unable to overcome the significant financial disadvantage we had and the intervention of the Governor and a major state agency in the campaign. Regardless, we are proud of the effort we put forward and are looking forward to continuing to be a part of the health care reform discussion in our state well into the future."
            Given the close vote, this proposition will almost certainly be placed back on the Arizona ballot in 2010 for voter approval.

 

CANADA

The Canadian Parliament adjourned for the summer without debating or passing bills C-51 and C-52, bills that could have overturned long standing legal precedent protecting Canadians’ health freedom.

For more information, you can view this site:

http://www.citizens.org/latest-happenings/health-freedom-victory-in-canada-for-now

 

CALIFORNIA
           Prop 65 is proposed regulation that wants to classify all beneficial nutrients with above-RDA potencies as cancer-causing agents under unless proven otherwise.   

For more information, please go to this website:  http://www.thenhf.com/press_releases/pr_12_may_2008.html

There is also California Health Freedom Coalition:  www.californiahealthfreedom.com and

California Citizens for Health Freedom:  www.citizenshealth.org or

Email: frank@citizenshealth.org

          From the California Citizens for Health Freedom website:

This year we are concentrating our efforts on passing a Bill that would allow licensed physicians to offer safe/effective alternative treatments for cancer.
            Freedom for physicians in California to have the same rights as physicians have in other states to offer safe/effective alternative treatment for cancer is illegal under Section 109335 of the Health and Safety Code.
            It has been the goal of our organization to change the California law that makes it a criminal offense to prescribe or administer cancer treatments other than chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. There are alternative treatments for cancer that are very effective, less expensive and do not have the terrible side effects of the conventional treatments.
            We introduced a cancer freedom bill in the past with thousands of support letters yet this bill was defeated. The political power of the California Medical Association, the opposition by the oncology physicians and the Medical Board along with the influence of the drug industry has made it almost impossible for passage of an alternative cancer bill.
            This year our organization is trying a different approach. We are focusing on the Medical Board to reinstate their Committee on Alternative Treatments and to present to that Committee the facts about the safety and effectiveness of alternative treatments for cancer. The goal is to prevail on the Medical Board to sponsor a bill to change the state law.
            For more information, go to their website: http://www.citizenshealth.org/californiabills.htm

 

COLORADO
From Colorado For Health Freedom            

            A monopolistic naturopathic physician bill has been introduced that we are opposing.  This is HB 09-1175 and you can view it here: http://www.leg.state.co.us/clics/clics2009a/csl.nsf/fsbillcont/EED6C188F451AFB38725754700782701?Open&file=1175_01.pdf

            This bill passed the House committees and Floor and has been assigned to the Health and Human Service committee in the Senate.
            We need your help.  We are asking people to contact members of this committee and ask them to vote NO on HB 1175.  For more information on how to do this, please go to the website: www.co4hf.synthasite.com  and also join the CO4HFG yahoo group

Join by sending a blank email to: CO4HFG-subscribe@yahoogroups.com OR send your email address to Kim at kimberlysharples@msn.com and she will add you to this yahoo group and you will automatically receive health freedom emails.

For those who do not have Internet access, an updated message number has been setup for your convenience. We will leave messages to keep you informed of important information and legislation. This is available 24/7. Just dial 1-641-715-3900 and enter code 9357483#  You may also leave a message at this number and someone will return your call.

You can also contact Kimberly Sharples at kimberlysharples@msn.com  or 719-390-1979 for more information.

 

CONNECTICUT
            Connecticut Health Freedom Coalition – Craig Respasz – crepasz@hotmail.com

 

DELAWARE
From American Association for Health Freedom:

            http://www.healthfreedom.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=710&Itemid=

 Help Preserve Choice in Nutritional Therapy in Delaware

            After a state legislature passes a new law, regulations are drawn up which dictate how that legislation is applied and carried out. Right now, Delaware is creating regulations for its Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensure Act.

            Over the past several years, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has been pressing state legislatures to accept registrations only from ADA’s credentialing arm to satisfy the state’s nutritionist licensing requirements. Meanwhile, qualified professionals who hold a current certificate from other established credentialing agencies are unable to practice nutritional therapy in that state.

            And that is what is happening in Delaware. As currently proposed, highly qualified professionals whose credentials are from other agencies will be prohibited from practicing nutritional therapy in Delaware. AAHF believes the restrictive language in these regulations not only misinterprets the legislation, but will create a monopoly for the ADA.

            At a minimum, we are requesting that the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS) be included in the Delaware regulations as a credentialing agency. This will protect the consumer’s right to choose from whom they receive their information and advice, and will ensure that competent, highly qualified professionals have the right to practice nutritional therapy. The education, internship, and exam requirements of CBNS actually exceed the standards set by the Delaware Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensure Act.

            Please support our efforts to include CBNS as a certifying organization. You can do this in one of two ways:

 

1. Submit a written comment to the Delaware State Board of Dietetics/Nutrition no later than April 17, 2009. The address is:
            Delaware State Board of Dietetics/Nutrition
            861 Silver Lake Boulevard
            Dover, DE 19904

 

You can go to the website to view sample letters for citizens and practitioners.

  

2. Attend the public hearing at 1:45 p.m. on April 17, 2009, at the same address. The public hearing will be in the Cannon Building, Second Floor, in Conference Room B. 

 

 

HAWAII

         House bill 1196 has been introduced.  This bill has amendments to the Naturopathic Physician Act.  For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

IDAHO
From Natural Health Idaho

            Idaho has a bill, S1014 that will repeal the Naturopathic Physician Licensing Act.  This has passed the Senate and is now in the House. For more information about Idaho, contact Boyd at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org or info@naturalhealthidaho.org. You can also visit the website for Idaho CNH at: www.naturalhealthidaho.org

 

ILLINOIS

         HR0095 creates a task force on the licensure of Naturopathic Physicians: http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=0095&GAID=10&GA=96&DocTypeID=HR&LegID=44565&SessionID=76

            For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

IOWA
From Iowa Health Freedom Coalition

            Our work for 2009 has already begun.  Our website improvements include a PayPal button that will make donating or renewing membership a breeze.  Check it out at: http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org/join.html 

We now have a Speakers Bureau where groups can request a speaker on many topics relating to health freedom, access to holistic wellness, and current laws or legislation relating to holistic, integrative wellness.  Please visit the site: http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org/speakersbureau.html  and line up a speaker for your event.

            As we shape our activities for the year, we want to hear from you: your concerns, your experiences, and your questions.  The more we know about what is going on throughout Iowa, the better we can serve you.  Please be our eyes and ears!  And we will be a more effective representative for you at the Capitol.  We are also expanding our organization and are looking for people to fill leadership roles or just help out; let us know if you’d like to join us and what you are interested or willing to do.  Our email: info@iowahealthfreedom.org

            We have introduced the Iowa Access to Wellness bill once again in the Iowa Legislature.  For more information: http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org

 

Kathryn Lappegard - President, Iowa Health Freedom Coalition 

 

LOUISIANA
From Louisiana Health Freedom Coalition

If you live in Louisiana and would like to help, please contact Cynthia Reed, ND, President of the Louisiana Health Freedom Coalition at 225-756-8400 or herbs-etc@cox.net or visit the website: www.lhfc.info

MARYLAND
From Dr. Mishra
            Maryland introduced a Health Freedom bill this year, but unfortunately it did not pass.   For more information on helping in Maryland, please contact :
            Dr. Lakshmi C. Mishra: 301 762 8262 -  www.aapra.com, lcmishra.com

 

MASSACHUSETTS
From Health Freedom Massachusetts http://www.healthfreedommassachusetts.org/

         The citation for the Massachusetts law regarding unlicensed practice of medicine is M.G.L. Chapter 112 and all of the included sections.  Some other applicable provisions might be found in M.G.L. Chapter 221, Section 26; M.G.L. Chapter 13, Section 26;  and M.G.L. Chapter 111, Section 53B.  Any law library has these laws.  They are also in the State House Library.  You can also access them by going to the site below.
http://www.state.ma.us/legis/laws/mgl/

 

MICHIGAN

http://www.mnhc.info/ or mnhcinfo@yahoo.com

 

MINNESOTA:      
            Minnesota’s Naturopathic Doctor registration law will go into effect July 1, 2009. For more information, you can contact MNACAP’s president Katie Murphy at katie@MNACAP.org.

 

MISSOURI

         The Coalition for Natural Health was able to stop attempts made to attach amendments to bills moving through legislature last year. House Bill 750 has been introduced and relates to the practice of naturopathic medicine:  http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills091/biltxt/intro/HB0750I.htm

For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

MONTANA
From Deborah Kimmet of Montana Health Freedom:
            SB 287 died in committee in the House.  Our effort for 2009 is finished.  Thanks for all your help, we couldn't have gotten as far as we did without you! 
            More information can be found on our website at www.montanahealthfreedom.org  or contact Deb Kimmet at deb@debkimmet.com

 

NEVADA

         SB 69 creates the Board of Complementary Integrative Medical Examiners: http://www.leg.state.nv.us/75th2009/Bills/SB/SB69.pdf

            For more information contact Boyd Landry: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

NEW JERSEY
            A Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensure bill (S1941 & A2933) was introduced in New Jersey in 2008 and was referred to the Senate Commerce Committee.  This bill could limit nutritional advice to only those dietitian/nutritionists licensed by the state of New Jersey.  You can view the bill here: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S2000/1941_I1.PDF 

            You may contact Boyd Landry for more information: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

NEW MEXICO

From Wynn Werner: 

New Mexico UNLICENSED HEALTH CARE PRACTICE ACT, HB 664, passed both the House and Senate and is on its way up to the Governor's office to sign by April 10th. There were many people that made this happen and thanks goes out to all. But of all the people, none deserves more thanks than our sponsor Representative Ken Martinez and the head of his staff Martha Minogue. It is because of their tireless support and knowledge of how things get done that we have been successful. We owe them a debt of thanks that can never be truly repaid.
            We believe that the NM Unlicensed health Care Practice Act is the best in the nation. Once the bill is signed into law however, we all have a big job ahead of us. And that is supporting our community in the implementation of the provisions of the act. Several of us who have been involved in the bill will be working to get leaders in their respective health care disciplines to head the effort to inform and support their practitioners. Our website www.nmcaamp.org  will be a place for information on the act, samples of disclosure, FAQ sections and other items that will support our CAM community. I urge you to take part in forming the future of health care in New Mexico.

            For more information, contact Wynn Werner - wwerner@ayurveda.com

 

NEW YORK
            A01370 is a naturopathic physician bill.  You can contact Boyd for more information: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

NORTH CAROLINA
From North Carolina Citizens for Healthcare Freedom:
            On Thursday March 26^th we were given a Number for our Consumer Health Act HR842

We need your support! Please call, email or fax your NC HOUSE REP and ask them to sign on as a co-sponsor to House Bill 842 They must sign before 6:30 PM Monday March 30.  

If you need to know your Representative, go to www.ncleg.net and type in your zip code

Then contact your Representative... . Ask your Representative to please sign onto House Bill 842 and give a short statement why you what their support for house bill 842

You can contact the Switchboard # 919-733-4111 and ask to be transferred your Representative to give or leave your message.

            We have been waiting for this bill number and we really need your help.

Now is your chance to make your voice heard.

 

Claiborne Holtzman, President - Citizens for Heathcare Freedom - www.ncchf.org - (252) 813-4950   

 

OHIO

         There are 2 health freedom organizations in Colorado: The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition and the Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition.

            1. Ohio Health Freedom Coalition – www.ohiohealthfreedom.org

email: info@ohiohealthfreedom.org

The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition was originally formed in 2004; OHFC is a non profit organization that advocates for changing Ohio law to allow for greater access to complementary and alternative health care services. OHFC’s members believe that complementary and alternative health care options should be available to members of the public, that citizens should have the freedom to select the practitioner who delivers them and that the state should not prohibit access to natural health services.

For more information or questions regarding the Ohio Health Freedom Coalition please call:
(614) 888-7351

             2. Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition - www.ohiohealthfreedom.info

            To learn more, please contact Linda Murray – hertouch@juno.com 

 

OKLAHOMA

Health Freedom Action Network: contact information: information@oklahomahealthfreedom.org Or their website: http://www.oklahomahealthfreedom.org

 

OREGON

            Oregon Health Freedom Website: www.oregonhealthfreedom.org or

email: john@oregonhealthfreedom.org

 

TENNESSEE
             HB 722 (http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB072 )  and 
HB 723 (http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0723 ) are bills pertaining to naturopathy.  For more information, please contact Boyd Landry at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

TEXAS

Message from Texas Health Freedom:  www.texashealthfreedom.com
            Hello Texas Health Freedom Fighters! Many exciting and encouraging things are beginning to happen as we work toward passing HB 40.  I want to thank all of you who are sending in testimonial letters, one page faxes, and personal stories on the website.  Please keep them coming.
            HB 40 has been assigned to the Public Health Committee as expected. 
            Testimonial Letters - Send any testimonial letters that you have your friends and customers fill out directly to me.  My fax number is (512)454-4461. I will be sure they get to your legislator.
            100,000 Health Freedom Stories - Log on to www.passhb40fortexas.org/ and share your story.  We're a long way from 100,000.  Please take 5 minutes and do this today.
            Health Freedom One Page Fax:  Have your customers fill these out, and fax them to your representative.  There is a copy available on the home page of www.texashealthfreedom.com in the Pages section.
             

VIRGINIA

Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals

             HB1744 Natural Health Care Providers bill (Health Freedom Bill) has been tabled by the Health, Welfare and Institutions committee. What exactly does this mean for us? Over the last few weeks, I have been talking with Delegate Pogge and others to decide what action we can take with a tabled bill. We have decided that for the present time we should not do anything with it, not because we don't want it passed, but the likelihood of passing it this year is slim. We just don't have enough support.
            So, here is what we need to do in preparation for next year:
-Form local constituent groups for each of the delegates and senators to educate them about the need for a Health Freedom Bill.
-Arrange for your group to meet face to face with your delegate and senator to let them know your concerns to pass a Health Freedom Bill in the 2010 legislative session and build a relationship with them over this next year. It's an election year for delegates so helping them with their campaign could put you in a position of favor. If they know you personally they are more willing to help you out.
-Arrange a meeting with local supervisors/city council, mayor etc to educate them of the need for a Health Freedom Bill and ask them to contact the delegates and senator that serve their district.
Your local officials know these delegates and senators and have influence.
-Talk with other groups or individuals that may have an interest in our cause; Home school groups, holistic minded groups, your clients.
            I am willing to help educate and train the leaders of the constituent groups so they in turn can educate and motivate their groups. I am also willing to go with you when you speak with your representatives. Our message to our officials must unify, so teamwork is a must. If
we are going to be successful we will need many leaders to reach each of the 100 delegates and 40 senators. If you are interested in being a team leader please contact me, let's move forward together.

Sharon E. Hrichak for
Virginians for Health Freedom, a project of the Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals
P.O. Box 316, Chesterfield, VA 23832-0005 www.cnhpva.org

 

  WASHINGTON STATE
            There are several bills in Washington:
            HB 1638 refers to Colon Hydrotherapy:  http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1638&year=2009

            HB 2007 pertains to Naturopathic Doctors:

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=2004&year=2009

            For information on these bills, contact Boyd Landry boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

            Health Freedom: The bill was heard on the Senate floor on Friday, January 30. It has been assigned a number: Senate Bill 5755 2009-10. The best way to easily stay updated is to use the following website address: www.leg.wa.gov/legislature and use the "Bill Search" tab near the top of the page (enter 5755).   
            According to the website: The "short title" of our bill is "Concerning alternative health care practitioners" In reading SB5755 as it is posted on the website, Section 1 says: "This act may be known and cited as the health care choice act.";   The direct-access URL is: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=5755&year=2009  
            After the bill was heard, it was referred to the Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee. The next step for our bill is that it will have to be scheduled for a hearing before the H&LTC Committee.  Senator Karen Kaiser is the chair of this committee. Our discussions with her have not been promising; she does not intend to hear the bill. That would kill it for this session. We need to convince her to hear the bill.  What people can do-call/write their senators and members of the Senate Health Committee. Contact Kaiser requesting that she hear the bill.           

For more information, go to the Washington Health Freedom website: http://healthfreedomwa.org/ or email: healthfreedom.wa@gmail.com or call 360-357-6263

 

WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Health Freedom Coalition     

WIHFC is a Wisconsin nonprofit 501(c) 4 lobbying organization for social justice supporting an exciting new Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act in Wisconsin in the 2009 to 2010 legislative session.

“Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act” will ensure consumer choice by providing a  “safe harbor exemption” for those doing non-licensed healing therapies as long as they follow guidelines of the bill. It also gives the consumer freedom to choose alternative practitioners and services desired. This is an exemption bill for everyone doing no harm.           

WIHFC opposes the WDA  (Wisconsin Dietetic Association) licensing bill SB 115. The WDA bill would allow only licensed Dietitians trained by the ADA (American Dietetic Association) and a few other licensed professions to discuss nutrition.  We see this as a freedom of speech issue. Food must remain in the public domain

            Check out website http://wihfc.com  where they have a lot of information. You can also contact Syncha Maniscalco, Director WIHFC, synchaa@gmail.com, 715-452-5544 

MARCH 2009 

 

 

ALASKA

         Alaska has introduced a Naturopathic Physician bill, SB70: http://www.aksenate.org/index.php?bill=SB70 

            For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

CANADA

The Canadian Parliament adjourned for the summer without debating or passing bills C-51 and C-52, bills that could have overturned long standing legal precedent protecting Canadians’ health freedom.

For more information, you can view this site:

http://www.citizens.org/latest-happenings/health-freedom-victory-in-canada-for-now

 

CALIFORNIA
           Prop 65 is proposed regulation that wants to classify all beneficial nutrients with above-RDA potencies as cancer-causing agents under unless proven otherwise.   

For more information, please go to this website:  http://www.thenhf.com/press_releases/pr_12_may_2008.html

There is also California Health Freedom Coalition:  www.californiahealthfreedom.com and

California Citizens for Health Freedom:  www.citizenshealth.org or

email: frank@citizenshealth.org

 

COLORADO
From Colorado For Health Freedom            

            A monopolistic naturopathic physician bill has been introduced that we are opposing.  This is HB 09-1175 and you can view it here: http://www.leg.state.co.us/clics/clics2009a/csl.nsf/fsbillcont/EED6C188F451AFB38725754700782701?Open&file=1175_01.pdf

            This bill passed the HHS committee and has been assigned to the Appropriations committee. We need your help.  Join the yahoogroup to be kept informed of upcoming information by sending a blank email to: CO4HFG-subscribe@yahoogroups.com OR send your email address to Kim at kimberlysharples@msn.com and she will add you to this yahoo group and you will automatically receive health freedom emails.

We also have a website:  www.co4hf.synthasite.com

For those who do not have Internet access, an updated message number has been setup for your convenience. We will leave messages to keep you informed of important information and legislation. This is available 24/7. Just dial 1-641-715-3900 and enter code 9357483#  You may also leave a message at this number and someone will return your call.

You can also contact Kimberly Sharples at kimberlysharples@msn.com  or 719-390-1979 for more information.

 

CONNECTICUT
            Connecticut Health Freedom Coalition – Craig Respasz – crepasz@hotmail.com

 

HAWAII

         House bill 1196 has been introduced.  This bill has amendments to the Naturopathic Physician Act.  For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

IDAHO
From Natural Health Idaho

            Idaho has a bill, S1014 that will repeal the Naturopathic Physician Licensing Act.  This has passed the Senate and is now in the House. For more information about Idaho, contact Boyd at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org or info@naturalhealthidaho.org. You can also visit the website for Idaho CNH at: www.naturalhealthidaho.org

 

ILLINOIS

         HR0095 creates a task force on the licensure of Naturopathic Physicians: http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=0095&GAID=10&GA=96&DocTypeID=HR&LegID=44565&SessionID=76

            For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

IOWA
From Iowa Health Freedom Coalition

            Our work for 2009 has already begun.  Our website improvements include a PayPal button that will make donating or renewing membership a breeze.  Check it out at: http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org/join.html 

We now have a Speakers Bureau where groups can request a speaker on many topics relating to health freedom, access to holistic wellness, and current laws or legislation relating to holistic, integrative wellness.  Please visit the site: http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org/speakersbureau.html  and line up a speaker for your event.

IHFC will have a booth at the Iowa Holistic Expo, March 14^th and 15^th at the Polk County Convention Center.  This was a wonderful event last year and this year promises to be as well.  Please plan to attend!  More information can be found at: http://www.edgelife.net/expos/iowa/index.htm

            As we shape our activities for the year, we want to hear from you: your concerns, your experiences, and your questions.  The more we know about what is going on throughout Iowa, the better we can serve you.  Please be our eyes and ears!  And we will be a more effective representative for you at the Capitol.  We are also expanding our organization and are looking for people to fill leadership roles or just help out; let us know if you’d like to join us and what you are interested or willing to do.  Our email: info@iowahealthfreedom.org

            We have introduced the Iowa Access to Wellness bill once again in the Iowa Legislature.  It has not been assigned a bill number yet, but look for an update soon!  Or check the website in the next week or so: http://www.iowahealthfreedom.org

 

Kathryn Lappegard - President, Iowa Health Freedom Coalition 

 

LOUISIANA
From Louisiana Health Freedom Coalition

If you live in Louisiana and would like to help, please contact Cynthia Reed, ND, President of the Louisiana Health Freedom Coalition at 225-756-8400 or herbs-etc@cox.net or visit the website: www.lhfc.info

MARYLAND
From Dr. Mishra
            I am pleased to announce that Alternative Health care bill HB 1380 has been introduced.    Here is the link to view the bill :  http://mlis.state.md.us/2009rs/bills/hb/hb1380f.pdf
            You may find contact info and e- mail of the HGO committee and Senate EHEA committee members.  It will be very useful to send an e-mail to these members in support of the bill.   Ask your friends to do the same.
HGO committee members
http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/06hse/html/com/05heal.html
Delegates by name:  http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/06hse/html/hseal.html
 Members of the Senate   EHEA  committee
http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/05sen/html/com/02eco.html
Senators by name:  http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/05sen/html/senal.html
You may want to track the bill for next few weeks for hearing dates.

Dr. Lakshmi C. Mishra
301 762 8262, www.aapra.com, lcmishra.com

 

MINNESOTA
Update from MNACAP:     
            MNACAP's website is under construction but may be viewed at www.mnacap.org The president is Katie Murphy and you can email her at katie@MNACAP.org for questions.

 

MISSOURI

         The Coalition for Natural Health was able to stop attempts made to attach amendments to bills moving through legislature last year. House Bill 750 has been introduced and relates to the practice of naturopathic medicine:  http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills091/biltxt/intro/HB0750I.htm

For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

MONTANA
From Deborah Kimmet of Montana Health Freedom:
            The Montana Health Freedom Coalition is moving forward with legislation in the 2009 Legislative session.  The chair of the Senate Business, Labor and Economic Affairs committee, Senator Joe Balyeat, volunteered to sponsor the bill.  He is a strong advocate for health freedom and supporter of alternative and complementary health care. 
            Montana has introduced SB 287 - the Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act. Montana's Bill has passed the 3rd reading in the Senate and now moves to the House.  It can be tracked on the legislative website:  www.leg.mt.gov
            More information can be found on our website at www.montanahealthfreedom.org and click on the "advocacy" page.

 

Deb Kimmet deb@debkimmet.com

 

NEVADA

         SB 69 creates the Board of Complementary Integrative Medical Examiners: http://www.leg.state.nv.us/75th2009/Bills/SB/SB69.pdf

            For more information contact Boyd Landry: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

NEW JERSEY
            A Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensure bill was introduced in New Jersey in 2008 and was referred to the Senate Commerce Committee.  This bill could limit nutritional advice to only those dietitian/nutritionists licensed by the state of New Jersey.  You can view the bill here: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S2000/1941_I1.PDF 

You may contact Boyd Landry for more information: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

NEW MEXICO

         A Health Freedom bill, HB 664, has been introduced in New Mexico: http://www.nmlegis.gov/lcs/_session.aspx?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=%20664&year=09

And also the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine bill, HB 492: http://www.nmlegis.gov/lcs/_session.aspx?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=%20492&year=09

            For more information contact Boyd Landry: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org or the NMCAAMP website at www.nmcaamp.org

 

NEW YORK
            A01370 is a naturopathic physician bill.  You can contact Boyd for more information: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 NORTH CAROLINA
From North Carolina Citizens for Healthcare Freedom:
Citizens For Healthcare Freedom (CHF) has been working to protect your rights to natural and complementary healthcare in North Carolina since 1995.  This year, CHF will be working with North Carolina legislators to pass the Consumer Health Freedom Act.  
            What is the Consumer Health Freedom Act?   An amendment to the NC medical licensing law to protect the right to choose nutritional supplements and access alternative, holistic, complementary, or natural health providers or practitioners. The legislation would protect the right of health care providers to offer their services legally and safely, without fear of being prosecuted for "practicing medicine without a license" in NC.
            For more information on this proposed legislation and CHF, visit:  www.ncchf.org
            Support Us!   It's imperative we raise funds immediately to cover the costs and expenses needed to pass The Consumer Health Freedom Act in the 2009-2010 Legislative Session.  CHF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization supported solely by membership dues and donations. All donations are 100% tax deductible.  Please support our vision of a health freedom state and a sustainable community by becoming a CHF member or by making a donation.  To join or contribute with a credit card, visit our website: www.ncchf.org  
            Claiborne Holtzman, President – (252) 813-4950     Mike Causey, Executive Director/Legislative Lobbyist – (336) 210-1947

OHIO

         There are 2 health freedom organizations in Colorado: The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition and the Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition.

            1. Ohio Health Freedom Coalition – www.ohiohealthfreedom.org

email: info@ohiohealthfreedom.org

The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition was originally formed in 2004; OHFC is a non profit organization that advocates for changing Ohio law to allow for greater access to complementary and alternative health care services. OHFC’s members believe that complementary and alternative health care options should be available to members of the public, that citizens should have the freedom to select the practitioner who delivers them and that the state should not prohibit access to natural health services.

Just in time for the New Year the Ohio Institute of Energetic Studies & Bodywork is hosting a FREE Holistic Health Expo in Cleveland, Ohio and Columbus, Ohio.

 Come out and meet our Executive Director, Sara Donlon

For more information or questions regarding the Ohio Health Freedom Coalition please call:
(614) 888-7351

             2. Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition - www.ohiosunshinehealthfreedom.info

            To learn more, please contact Linda Murray – hertouch@juno.com 

 

OKLAHOMA

Health Freedom Action Network: contact information: information@oklahomahealthfreedom.org Or their website: http://www.oklahomahealthfreedom.org

 

OREGON

            Oregon Health Freedom Website: www.oregonhealthfreedom.org or

email: john@oregonhealthfreedom.org

 

TENNESSEE
             HB 722 (http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB072 )  and 
HB 723 (http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0723 ) are bills pertaining to naturopathy.  For more information, please contact Boyd Landry at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

TEXAS

Message from Texas Health Freedom:  www.texashealthfreedom.com
            Hello Texas Health Freedom Fighters! Many exciting and encouraging things are beginning to happen as we work toward passing HB 40.  I want to thank all of you who are sending in testimonial letters, one page faxes, and personal stories on the website.  Please keep them coming.
            HB 40 has been assigned to the Public Health Committee as expected.  We should be scheduled for our Hearing sometime in March.  We want to have many contacts from Texans who value health freedom to take with us.  NOW is the time to act!
            Testimonial Letters - Send any testimonial letters that you have your friends and customers fill out directly to me.  My fax number is (512)454-4461. I will be sure they get to your legislator.
            100,000 Health Freedom Stories - Log on to www.passhb40fortexas.org/ and share your story.  We're a long way from 100,000.  Please take 5 minutes and do this today.
            Health Freedom One Page Fax:  Have your customers fill these out, and fax them to your representative.  There is a copy available on the home page of www.texashealthfreedom.com in the Pages section.
            LOBBY DAY - Join us Wed, March 4 from 9 to 4.  We really need some more supporters to go with us and let our legislators know how much we value Health Freedom.  Please register at www.thfclobby.evenbrite.com.

 

Thanks for your help.

Gwen Johnson, HB 40 Grassroots Coordinator

VIRGINIA

Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals

             HB1744 Natural Health Care Providers bill (Health Freedom Bill) has been tabled by the Health, Welfare and Institutions committee. What exactly does this mean for us? Over the last few weeks, I have been talking with Delegate Pogge and others to decide what action we can take with a tabled bill. We have decided that for the present time we should not do anything with it, not because we don't want it passed, but the likelihood of passing it this year is slim. We just don't have enough support.
            So, here is what we need to do in preparation for next year:
-Form local constituent groups for each of the delegates and senators to educate them about the need for a Health Freedom Bill.
-Arrange for your group to meet face to face with your delegate and senator to let them know your concerns to pass a Health Freedom Bill in the 2010 legislative session and build a relationship with them over this next year. It's an election year for delegates so helping them with their campaign could put you in a position of favor. If they know you personally they are more willing to help you out.
-Arrange a meeting with local supervisors/city council, mayor etc to educate them of the need for a Health Freedom Bill and ask them to contact the delegates and senator that serve their district.
Your local officials know these delegates and senators and have influence.
-Talk with other groups or individuals that may have an interest in our cause; Home school groups, holistic minded groups, your clients.
            I am willing to help educate and train the leaders of the constituent groups so they in turn can educate and motivate their groups. I am also willing to go with you when you speak with your representatives. Our message to our officials must unify, so teamwork is a must. If
we are going to be successful we will need many leaders to reach each of the 100 delegates and 40 senators. If you are interested in being a team leader please contact me, let's move forward together.

Sharon E. Hrichak for
Virginians for Health Freedom, a project of the Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals
P.O. Box 316, Chesterfield, VA 23832-0005

 

  WASHINGTON STATE
            There are several bills in Washington:
            HB 1638 refers to Colon Hydrotherapy:  http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1638&year=2009

            HB 2007 pertains to Naturopathic Doctors:

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=2004&year=2009

            For information on these bills, contact Boyd Landry boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

            Health Freedom: The bill was heard on the Senate floor on Friday, January 30. It has been assigned a number: Senate Bill 5755 2009-10. The best way to easily stay updated is to use the following website address: www.leg.wa.gov/legislature and use the "Bill Search" tab near the top of the page (enter 5755).   
            According to the website: The "short title" of our bill is "Concerning alternative health care practitioners" In reading SB5755 as it is posted on the website, Section 1 says: "This act may be known and cited as the health care choice act.";   The direct-access URL is: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=5755&year=2009  
            After the bill was heard, it was referred to the Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee. The next step for our bill is that it will have to be scheduled for a hearing before the H&LTC Committee.  Senator Karen Kaiser is the chair of this committee. Our discussions with her have not been promising; she does not intend to hear the bill. That would kill it for this session. We need to convince her to hear the bill.  What people can do-call/write their senators and members of the Senate Health Committee. Contact Kaiser requesting that she hear the bill.           

For more information, go to the Washington Health Freedom website: http://healthfreedomwa.org/ or email: healthfreedom.wa@gmail.com or call 360-357-6263

 

WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Health Freedom Coalition     

WIHFC is a Wisconsin nonprofit 501(c) 4 lobbying organization for social justice supporting an exciting new Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act in Wisconsin in the 2009 to 2010 legislative session.

“Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act” will ensure consumer choice by providing a  “safe harbor exemption” for those doing non-licensed healing therapies as long as they follow guidelines of the bill. It also gives the consumer freedom to choose alternative practitioners and services desired. This is an exemption bill for everyone doing no harm.          

WIHFC opposes the WDA  (Wisconsin Dietetic Association) licensing bill (SB 394 & AB 742) that was defeated last session and will be re-introduced in the 2009 to 2010 session. The WDA bill would allow only licensed Dietitians trained by the ADA (American Dietetic Association) and a few other licensed professions to discuss nutrition.  We see this as a freedom of speech issue. Food must remain in the public domain

They ask that everyone call their lawmakers now. WDA MAILED LETTERS TO EVERY OFFICE IN MADISON...Have every client in your office/store call form your phone, make them take action now. For those not aware of the WDA Licensure bill go to: http://wihfc.com/about_us.htm
            Find your legislator: http://www.legis.wisconsin.gov/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx
            Check out website http://wihfc.com 

Syncha Maniscalco, Director WIHFC, synchaa@gmail.com, 715-452-5544 

 

FEBRUARY 2009

 

CANADA

The Canadian Parliament adjourned for the summer without debating or passing bills C-51 and C-52, bills that could have overturned long standing legal precedent protecting Canadians’ health freedom.

For more information, you can view this site:

http://www.citizens.org/latest-happenings/health-freedom-victory-in-canada-for-now

 

CALIFORNIA
           Prop 65 is proposed regulation that wants to classify all beneficial nutrients with above-RDA potencies as cancer-causing agents under unless proven otherwise.   

For more information, please go to this website:  http://www.thenhf.com/press_releases/pr_12_may_2008.html

There is also California Health Freedom Coalition:  www.californiahealthfreedom.com and

California Citizens for Health Freedom:  www.citizenshealth.org or

email: frank@citizenshealth.org

 

COLORADO
From Colorado For Health Freedom             

            We are gearing up for the 2009 legislative session.  In the event an unfavorable bill is introduced, we need to be ready to react.

            If you haven’t joined the CO4HFG yahoo group – we need you to do that.  If you know other health freedom supporters, we need them to join as well.  There are thousands of people to contact and it makes it MUCH easier if we only have to send one email that goes to everyone.  You can join by sending a blank email to: CO4HFG-subscribe@yahoogroups.com OR send your email address to Kim at kimberlysharples@msn.com and she will add you to this yahoo group and you will automatically receive health freedom emails.  This is a very important way to help support health freedom in Colorado!  Please pass this information on to others!

We also have a website:  www.co4hf.synthasite.com

For those who do not have Internet access, an updated message number has been setup for your convenience. We will leave messages to keep you informed of important information and legislation. This is available 24/7. Just dial 1-641-715-3900 and enter code 9357483#  You may also leave a message at this number and someone will return your call.

You can also contact Kimberly Sharples at kimberlysharples@msn.com  or 719-390-1979. 

 

CONNECTICUT
            Connecticut Health Freedom Coalition – Craig Respasz – crepasz@hotmail.com

 

IDAHO
From Natural Health Idaho

            Idaho’s legislative session started in January. They are keeping an eye on bills that are being introduced.  For more information about Idaho, contact Boyd at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org or info@naturalhealthidaho.org. You can also visit the website for Idaho CNH at: www.naturalhealthidaho.org

 

IOWA
            Iowa introduced Health Freedom language in 2008, but was not successful. To learn more about the Iowa Health Freedom Coalition, you can access their website: www.iowahealthfreedom.org 

 

LOUISIANA
From Louisiana Health Freedom Coalition

Louisiana’s focus this year was to introduce a total Health Freedom Bill in the 2008 Louisiana Legislative Session. They held a statewide membership meeting in March with 3 excellent speakers: Senator Sharon Weston Broome (Sponsor of the bill), Dr. John Baker, head of LSU Law School (health freedom advocate), and Boyd Landry, Executive Director of CNH.

They also held several statewide meeting to attract new members as well as enlighten the member that reside outside the Baton Rouge area of their intentions to introduce a bill in this year’s 2008 session; as well as meeting with legislators at the Capitol Rotunda several times.

They hired a Lobbyist to work with us to amend Acts 655 and 334, which were bills we passed in the 2006, and 2005 sessions.  With lobbyist Kathy Chittom and Senator Broome’s influence, they were able to pass a bill in this year’s 2008 Legislative Session.  The Governor signed the bill into law at the end of June (Act No. 524).  They now feel as though Louisiana finally has a Total Health Freedom Bill.

Their board meets the last Monday of each month, and they have a conference call number for those who cannot attend in person.

If you live in Louisiana and would like to help, please contact Cynthia Reed, ND, President of the Louisiana Health Freedom Coalition at 225-756-8400 or herbs-etc@cox.net or visit the website: www.lhfc.info

 

MARYLAND
           Maryland introduced a health freedom bill in 2008, but it was not successful. They need volunteers. Contact Dr. Mishra for more information regarding Health Freedom in Maryland: mishra13505@yahoo.com 

 

MINNESOTA
Update from MNACAP:     
            The "Naturopathic Doctor Work Group" finished meeting in December but have not yet produced their final report. Traditional naturopath delegates to this work group Pat Ruether, N.D., Arlene Bushard N.D., and Diane Miller, J.D. proposed amendments that would not substantively change Naturopathic Doctor Registration, Minn. Statute, Chapter 147E but would add "comfort language" restating the acknowledgement of Complementary and Alternative Practices Act, Minn. Statutes, Chapter 146A.  These three delegates agreed to not propose their amendments to the Minnesota Legislature until the 2010 session which would be after the Naturopathic Physicians are registered in July 2009.  Diane Miller left the Naturopathic Doctor Work Group meeting sure that she had an agreement with the Naturopathic Physicians. When it was time for the final report to be written by the Minnesota Department of Health and given to the Legislature the Naturopathic Physicians declared there was no agreement. 
             Minnesota Advocates for Complementary and Alternative Practices, MNACAP, strongly disagreed with the proposed amendments put forth by Naturopathic Doctor Work Group, traditional naturopath delegate leader Diane Miller.  MNACAP reported the "comfort language" amendments proposed by Diane Miller did not address any of the concerns by the practitioners within the community who are concerned about the "title", "scope of practice", and "naturopathic medicine" definitions in the 147E Naturopathic Doctor Registration.  MNACAP stated the practitioners worked hard to raise legislature interest and concerns about this bill during the 2008 session and managed to add the Naturopathic Doctor Work Group amendment at the last minute and Diane Miller and the Traditional Naturopath representatives did not address these practitioner's concerns.    
          Also in Minnesota:  Massage therapists are producing a bill for Massage Licensing and are interested in creating a Massage Licensing Board
             MNACAP's website is under construction but may be viewed at www.mnacap.org The president is Katie Murphy and you can email her at katie@MNACAP.org for questions or more information.

 

MISSOURI

            The Coalition for Natural Health was able to stop attempts made to attach amendments to bills moving through legislature.  They expect licensing legislation to be introduced in 2009.  For more information, contact Boyd Landry at boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

MONTANA
From Deborah Kimmet of Montana Health Freedom:
          The Montana Health Freedom Coalition is moving forward with legislation in the 2009 Legislative session.  The chair of the Senate Business, Labor and Economic Affairs committee, Senator Joe Balyeat, volunteered to sponsor the bill.  He is a strong advocate for health freedom and supporter of alternative and complementary health care. The bill has not been introduced as yet, so has no official bill number, but it may be tracked using the # LC0654.  It is likely to be assigned to Sen. Balyeat's committee.
        To help pass this bill, go to www.montanahealthfreedom.org to see how you can help.  Your assistance is needed!
           Contact Deborah Kimmet at 406-251-9704 or at deb@debkimmet.com for more information or for volunteer opportunities.

 

NEW JERSEY
            A Dietitian/Nutritionist Licensure bill was introduced in New Jersey in 2008 and was referred to the Senate Commerce Committee.  This bill could limit nutritional advice to only those dietitian/nutritionists licensed by the state of New Jersey.  You can view the bill here: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2008/Bills/S2000/1941_I1.PDF   You may contact Boyd Landry for more information: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

NEW YORK
            There were three restrictive bills introduced in New York, which could have prohibited traditional naturopaths from practicing.  Boyd Landry with CNH worked at killing these bills and they are monitoring legislation for the remainder of 2008 and into 2009.  You can contact Boyd for more information: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 
NORTH CAROLINA
From Claiborne Holtz of North Carolina Citizens for Healthcare Freedom:
            The proposed draft of the Health Freedom Act that Citizens for Healthcare Freedom (CHF) wants to get passed this year comes as a result of more than six years (yes 6 yrs) of legislative work on this issue.
            CHF had worked on this issue prior to 2003, but the 2003-2004 legislative session was the one I remember where CHF had a health freedom bill introduced by Rep. Paul Luebke of Durham. CHF tried to get it moving through volunteers and legislative phone calls etc. That didn't work and the bill died that session.
             In the 2005-2006 General Assembly, CHF hired me to introduce the legislation again. We worked hard, with the help of Diane Miller from Minnesota helping us draft the bill language. That Health Freedom Act was heard in committee and dozens of health freedom supporters from all over North Carolina gave testimony at the hearings.
             Although the bill never got out of committee for a floor vote, enough legislative interest was generated for the legislature to authorize a formal "Legislative study" of our bill. The study was also to gather information on the need for public access to "Complementary and Alternative Medicine" in North Carolina.
            In 2007, three (3) public hearings were held across the state- Raleigh, Asheville and New Bern. More than three hundred people attended these hearings. I recall more than Seventy (70) people giving testimony over the course of the hearings. There was tremendous public support for our proposal.
            Those hearings and "The study" allowed us to continue to move forward in 2008. Unfortunately, due other state issues taking priority, resistance from the Medical Society and their well funded lawyers opposing health freedom, in conjunction with CHF's lack of funding and support for the lobbying effort, House Bill 1358 never came up for a vote in '08.
             With the new legislative leadership this year along with our "friends" in the legislature who are ready to help us get moving this session, NOW is our best chance. I believe that I can move quickly to get things rolling again if the funding and support from the holistic community comes forth to pay the freight for CHF.
              I'll be glad to answer any questions at any time. If anyone has a comment or suggestion, please ask them to call or email me.
              With all the effort that has gone into the health freedom movement in NC, it would be a shame for this effort to be "flushed" down the drain before the 2009-2010 legislative session even begins.
              Thanks for all you're doing to help.
Mike Causey (336) 210-1947
Causey & Associates, PO Box 16725, Greensboro, NC 27416
www.ncchf.org

You may also contact Claiborne Holtz cjholtz@embarqmail.com  

 

OHIO

            There are 2 health freedom organizations in Colorado: The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition and the Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition.

            1. Ohio Health Freedom Coalition – www.ohiohealthfreedom.org

email: info@ohiohealthfreedom.org

The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition was originally formed in 2004; OHFC is a non profit organization that advocates for changing Ohio law to allow for greater access to complementary and alternative health care services. OHFC’s members believe that complementary and alternative health care options should be available to members of the public, that citizens should have the freedom to select the practitioner who delivers them and that the state should not prohibit access to natural health services.

Just in time for the New Year the Ohio Institute of Energetic Studies & Bodywork is hosting a FREE Holistic Health Expo in Cleveland, Ohio and Columbus, Ohio.

 Come out and meet our Executive Director, Sara Donlon

The Ohio Health Freedom Coalition will have a booth in Columbus and Cleveland.  

  

Cleveland	Columbus
Saturday, February 7th	Saturday, February 28th
10:00am to 2:00pm	10:00am to 2:00pm
Fairview Hospital Wellness Center	Columbus Polarity
(3035 Wooster Rd.)	(1253 N. High St.)
CALL TO REGISTER: (216)226.2912	CALL TO REGISTER: (216)299.9438

For more information or questions regarding the Ohio Health Freedom Coalition please call:
(614) 888-7351

             2. Ohio Sunshine Health Freedom Coalition introduced a health freedom bill, H.B. 580. You can read the bill here: http://www.legislature.state.oh.us/bills.cfm?ID=127_HB_580  

            To learn more, please contact Linda Murray – hertouch@juno.com  or go to their website: www.ohiosunshinehealthfreedom.info

 

OKLAHOMA

Health Freedom Action Network: contact information: information@oklahomahealthfreedom.org Or their website: http://www.oklahomahealthfreedom.org

 

OREGON

            Oregon Health Freedom Website: www.oregonhealthfreedom.org or

email: john@oregonhealthfreedom.org

 

TENNESSEE

Two identical restrictive licensing bills were entertained this session.  Fortunately, both of these bills died in committee.  They expect similar legislation to be introduced in 2009.  For more information, please contact Boyd Landry at: boydlandry@naturalhealth.org

 

TEXAS

Message from Peter McCarthy, Texas Health Freedom:
           Colleagues and Friends of Texas Health Freedom,
The 81st Texas Legislature has convened. Within the next two months, our health freedom bill, HB 40, will be heard in committee. In an effort to gather as much support from all across Texas as we can, we have a brand new web site: http://www.passhb40fortexas.org/
            This allows ALL Texans who have a personal health success story they wish to share to do so in a convenient way that helps us pass our health freedom bill.  Our goal is to collect at least 100,000 stories before the bill is heard, so we can wheel CARTSFUL of them into the hearing room. Here's how you can help:
            As a consumer - log onto the site, click on "Testimonials," and share your story. The maximum character count (letters and spaces) is 3000, so please be concise.
As a practitioner - send all your clients to this site, and ask them to log their success stories as well.
            As a natural product retailer/manufacturer - ask all your customers to go to the site and share their stories.
            We will tell you about more opportunities for you to help us pass HB 40 very soon. Please share you story; it WILL make a difference!

Thanks,
Peter McCarthy
Certified Traditional Naturopath
Chair, Texas Health Freedom Coalition
www.texashealthfreedom.com
           

VIRGINIA

This is from the Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals :

            There is a Health Freedom bill (HB1744) and Naturopathic Physician bill (HB1820) in Virginia.  We are in support of the Health Freedom bill and opposing the Naturopathic Physician bill. At the time of writing this article (Mid January) these bills have been assigned, but not heard in committee.

            Please check www.cnhpva.org and www.fyhf.synthasite.com for current updates.
          For several years a small army of individuals have worked long hard hours trying to pass legislation in Virginia that would protect practitioners of the healing arts and consumers. Over the next two months we'll need a LARGE ARMY of dedicated people who want make their voices heard loud and clear in Richmond. The Virginia legislative session began January 14th and we have only 45 days after that to pass our bill. Many have been working behind the scenes preparing for this year's session. Delegate Brenda Pogge has enthusiastically agreed to carry our proposed legislation, HB1744-Consumer's Choice Protection Bill, known to many of us as The Health Freedom Bill.
            Passing our bill is a process. It will first goes to the Health, Welfare and Institution committee on January 14th. They assign it to a sub-committee for review. When it is approved by that committee it goes before the entire Health, Welfare and Institutions committee for their approval. Then the bill gets sent to the entire House of Delegates for approval. On February 10th all bills that have been approved by the House of Delegates are sent over to the Senate where is will go through an approval process. So, our first step is to get it out of the subcommittee and approved by the House of Delegates.
            To find out who your delegate is: http://conview.state.va.us/whosmy.nsf/main?openform
To read the bill and follow its progress: http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?091+com+H12
             Keep checking the websites for regular updates and action steps. We all want to make this happen in 2009 so please do your part - we can't do it without you!
             Remember, a deluge of e-mails, faxes, letters or calls from constituents will get the attention of the representative, I know because I'm married to a local representative and he takes action
when the masses contact him.

Sharon E. Hrichak for
Virginians for Health Freedom, a project of the Virginia Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals
P.O. Box 316, Chesterfield, VA 23832-0005

           

 

  WASHINGTON STATE
 Health Freedom Washington (www.healthfreedomwa.org):

             Unlicensed healing practitioners can be charged criminally for practicing medicine without a license; they are legally vulnerable due to overly broad and outdated laws defining the practice of medicine.  Licensed practitioners providing holistic, integrative, natural or alternative services can also be disciplined by their licensing boards if treatment is outside the accepted standard of conventional medical care.
             But, the good news is there is a solution!  We are part of a national health freedom movement that is changing these laws. Six states have already been successful and at least fifteen others, including us, are in the process!   Consumers and practitioners have come together to form HEALTH FREEDOM WASHINGTON.  With your help and participation we can preserve and even expand the health care choices in our state.  We hope you will learn more about this important issue and join us!

            To read about Washington's Health Freedom bill, go to: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/documents/billdocs/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate%20Bills/6886.pdf 

            For more information, go to the Washington Health Freedom website: http://healthfreedomwa.org/ or email: healthfreedom.wa@gmail.com or call 360-357-6263

 

WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Health Freedom Coalition     

WIHFC is a Wisconsin nonprofit 501(c) 4 lobbying organization for social justice supporting an exciting new Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act in Wisconsin in the 2009 to 2010 legislative session.

“Consumer Health Freedom and Access Act” will ensure consumer choice by providing a  “safe harbor exemption” for those doing non-licensed healing therapies as long as they follow guidelines of the bill. It also gives the consumer freedom to choose alternative practitioners and services desired. This is an exemption bill for everyone doing no harm.          

WIHFC will oppose a WDA  (Wisconsin Dietetic Association) licensing bill (SB 394 & AB 742) that was defeated last session and will be re-introduced in the 2009 to 2010 session. The WDA bill would allow only licensed Dietitians trained by the ADA (American Dietetic Association) and a few other licensed professions to discuss nutrition.  We see this as a freedom of speech issue.

            Check out website http://wihfc.com 

Syncha Maniscalco, Director WIHFC, synchaa@gmail.com, 715-452-5544 

 

 

THANKS FOR SUPPORTING HEALTH FREEDOM!

___________________________________________________________________________________

Kimberly Sharples, HHP, Health Freedom Activist

For Your Health Freedom
kimberlysharples@msn.com
(719) 390-1979

__________________________________________________________________