Specializing in niche massage modalities can be a worthwhile career move, but it’s important to navigate the regulatory responsibilities that come with it. Lines between massage and other wellness professions can blur, making scope of practice an essential part of the niche modality conversation.
Legislative Updates
Read ABMP Director of Government Relations Laura Puryear's comments to the California Senate Appropriations Committee opposing Assembly Bill 1703.
AI is beginning to influence how government agencies process information, organize public feedback, and modernize regulatory processes. Let’s open a chat and discuss where we’re seeing AI in the legislative world and what that means for professionals.
On June 29, the US Department of Education (ED) made the proposed accountability framework rules permanent. In the announcement, ED included a delay of select provisions that would grant programs connected to certain professions, including massage, a one-year pause in implementation of these rules.
House File 3825 was enacted, creating voluntary registration for massage and Asian bodywork therapists, advancing the profession forward by establishing clearer standards and introducing state-level oversight. The optional registration will take effect July 1, 2028.
House Bill 3000 extended the State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (Board) and eliminated the Advisory Board on Massage Therapy. The law added one licensed massage therapist to the Board to ensure the profession still has a voice in regulatory decisions. If you’re ready to represent your profession, we want to hear from you.
Legislative session is winding down, but rulemaking is just picking up, and it directly affects what you can do in the treatment room. Find out how massage therapy boards develop rules around new laws that guide your daily practice. Also, discover how to track changes early and your role in advocacy at the regulatory level.
Senate Bill 419 allows current registered massage practitioners (RMPs) to continue practicing massage therapy beyond October 31, 2026. No new RMP registrations will be issued. The State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners will begin converting existing RMP registrations to massage therapy licenses. There is no immediate change to RMP practice status because of this law.
Help protect massage therapy and wellness-related programs by submitting a comment by May 20. Your perspective as a practicing professional (whether you received financial aid or not), a business owner, an educator, or a school leader carries weight, particularly with your congressional representative. Your voice matters.
With a busy media stream competing for your attention, it can be difficult to find the energy to engage with an advocacy call to action. But supporting your profession matters and advocacy fatigue can pop up if you don’t find a balance. Learn how to stay informed and take action while protecting your peace in a face-paced environment.