Changes the naming of doctor of naturopathy to naturopathic doctor.

Plain-English Summary

This bill proposes a simple name change in Rhode Island law for a specific type of healthcare practitioner. Currently, state law refers to these professionals as "doctor of naturopathy," but this bill would update that title to "naturopathic doctor." Naturopathic practitioners focus on natural and holistic approaches to healthcare, and this change would bring Rhode Island's official terminology more in line with how the profession is commonly recognized across the country.

The change would primarily affect licensed naturopathic practitioners in Rhode Island, as well as the official documents, licenses, and regulations that reference their title. For patients and the general public, the practical impact would be minimal — it is largely an administrative and professional distinction rather than a change to what these practitioners are allowed to do or how they are regulated.

The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island House of Representatives and referred to the House Health & Human Services Committee. As of now, the committee has recommended holding the bill for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward in the legislative process. A hearing has been scheduled for February 2026, so lawmakers will have another opportunity to review and discuss the proposal.