The Ohio legislature introduced Senate Bill 56, the Massage Compact, in February 2023. If you believe an interstate license would benefit massage therapists, write a letter to your representatives.
Government Relations
Senate File 967 and House File 973 have been introduced this legislative session. Both bills would require massage therapists and Asian bodywork therapists to be state licensed. If you believe massage licensing would help the public and the profession, send supportive emails to Senator Clare Oumou Verbeten and Representative Dave Pinto.
The Iowa Board of Massage Therapy adopted new rules that require massage therapists who treat children and dependent adults to complete mandatory reporter training.
The Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering has adopted rules that identify a list of crimes that will disqualify a person from being licensed as a massage therapist. The crime(s) or criminal charge(s) has to be largely related to the practice of massage therapy and pose a sufficient threat to public safety, health, or welfare. The rules became effective January 16, 2023.
The Washington legislature introduced House Bill 1437, the Massage Compact, in January 2023. The bill will make it easier for licensed massage therapists to work in other jurisdictions. If you believe an interstate license would benefit massage therapists, write a letter to your representatives.
The Nebraska legislature introduced Legislative Bill 280, the Massage Compact, in January 2023. The bill will make it easier for licensed massage therapists to work in other jurisdictions. If you believe an interstate license would benefit massage therapists, write a letter to your representatives.
The New Hampshire legislature introduced House Bill 341, which would create massage therapy establishment licensing. The bill is being heard by the Executive Departments and Administration Committee (Committee) at 10:45 a.m. EST on January 25. If you are opposed to establishment licensure, ABMP encourages you to advocate and speak your mind by emailing your opinions to the Committee.
New York bill requires medical practitioners to consider, discuss, and refer or prescribe non-opioid treatments, including massage therapy, before starting opioid treatment.
The California Massage Therapy Council approved a $100 certification fee increase—a 50 percent markup from the previous $200. Now is the time to forward your comments to your legislators to explain how this affects you.
The California Massage Therapy Council voted 5–1 to raise massage therapy certification fees to $300, a 50 percent increase, beginning April 1, 2023.