08-20080-13

SUMMARY OF: A Sunset Review on the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Board of Chiropractic Examiners, June 6, 2013

Purpose of the Report

In accordance with Title 24 and Title 44 of the Alaska Statutes (sunset legislation), we have reviewed the Board of Chiropractic Examiners’ (board or BCE) activities. The purpose of this audit was to determine if there is a demonstrated public need for the board’s continued existence and if it has been operating in an effective manner. As required by AS 44.66.050(a), this report shall be considered by the committee of reference during the legislative oversight process in determining whether BCE should be reestablished. Currently, under AS 08.03.010(c)(5), the board will terminate on June 30, 2014, and will have one year from that date to conclude its administrative operations.

Report Conclusions

We conclude that BCE’s termination date should be extended. The board is protecting the public’s interest by effectively licensing and regulating chiropractors. BCE monitors licensees and ensures that only qualified individuals practice. Furthermore, the board develops and adopts regulatory changes to improve the chiropractic profession in Alaska. We recommend that the board’s termination date be extended eight years to June 30, 2022.

The prior sunset audit included one recommendation which has been resolved. This report makes two new recommendations for improving board operations.

Findings and Recommendations

  1. The Office of the Governor should make board appointments in compliance with statutory requirements.
  2. The Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing’s director should continue efforts to improve the investigative case management system’s integrity and confidentiality.