Utah Bill Aims to Protect Traditional Indigenous Healing Practices
SALT LAKE CITY — A bill recently passed by the Utah House of Representatives seeks to clarify and protect the practice of traditional Native American healing, exempting practitioners from state licensing requirements. The legislation, HB277, aims to ensure access to culturally significant healing traditions and foster self-determination within Indigenous communities.
Understanding the Bill
HB277, sponsored by Rep. Jake Fitisemanu, a Democrat representing West Valley City [2], focuses on providing clarity regarding the legal status of “traditional healing providers” within American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Currently, the need for licensing among these practitioners exists in a “little gray area,” according to Fitisemanu. The bill specifically clarifies that these healers will not be required to obtain a state license to practice, while explicitly stating it does not grant them the authority to prescribe drugs. [1]
Support for the Legislation
The bill has garnered support from several Indigenous organizations, including the Navajo Nation Council and the Urban Indian Center in Salt Lake City. [1] Yvette Romero Coronado, an associate professor in the University of Utah College of Social Work, as well voiced her support during a Feb. 9 House committee hearing, sharing personal experiences with family healers and emphasizing the importance of these practices within her community. [1]
Romero Coronado highlighted that some individuals are hesitant to disclose their use of traditional healers to conventional healthcare providers due to concerns about potential repercussions. The bill aims to alleviate these concerns by legally recognizing and protecting these practices. [1]
Addressing Concerns
During House discussions, Rep. Karianne Lisonbee inquired whether the bill could potentially open the door to the legal use of peyote. Rep. Fitisemanu clarified that the legislation does not alter existing legal restrictions regarding the drug, which holds spiritual and religious significance for some Native American communities. [1]
Next Steps
Having passed the Utah House with a 51-18 vote on Wednesday, February 17, 2026, HB277 now moves to the Senate for consideration. [1] If approved by the Senate, the bill will become law, offering legal protection and recognition to traditional Indigenous healers in Utah.
About Rep. Jake Fitisemanu
Representative Jake Fitisemanu has served in the Utah House of Representatives since January 1, 2025, representing District 30. [2] He is also known for his community involvement, including co-founding initiatives like the Utah Pacific Islander Health Coalition and the Annual Utah Pacific Islander Health Week. [4] He was appointed by President Obama to the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders in 2015. [4]