Bill Proposes Changes to South Dakota Massage Law

South Dakota HB 1027, introduced this legislative session, would make several changes to South Dakota’s massage law if passed. ABMP submitted public comments during the bill’s drafting period, which you can read here.  One of the primary changes that would occur if the bill passes is a tightening of the rules for licensure by endorsement, in that out-of-state licensees would be required to show specifically that they have 500 hours of massage education or have practiced massage for the past two years. This could impact people who obtained their out-of-state license by grandfathering. ABMP expressed our concern about this provision during the bill’s drafting. Another important change would be to add new language making clear that the Board of Massage Therapy has the authority to enforce the provisions of the massage law. We will keep you updated on the status of this bill.

News

Alaska Massage Board Remains Independent and Autonomous

Executive Order No. 129 sought to dissolve the Alaska Board of Massage Therapists and transfer its functions to the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (DCCED). The executive order was successfully overturned.

Gainful Employment Rules Compliance Updates

Over the past two weeks, the US Department of Education issued updates to the new “Gainful Employment” (GE) regulations for vocational programs published last fall. This web post addresses the updates to prepare school owners and educators ahead of the July 1, 2024, new GE rule effective date.

New Study Reconfirms the Benefits of Touch

A recent study found that touch interventions were effective in helping regulate cortisol levels, reducing feelings of depression in adults, and having other significant benefits.

Blog

Faces of Bodywork: Adriane Maxwell

Massage therapist Adriane Maxwell stands in front of a palm tree.

Adriane Maxwell is the owner of One Healing Touch Reiki & Massage for Women in Charleston, South Carolina. Maxwell was featured in the May/June 2024 issue of Massage & Bodywork magazine in “Faces of Bodywork.”

Benefits

Podcast: Cancer, Clots, and COVID—A Complicated Client

A client was recently treated for colon cancer—and it didn’t go well. She had surgical complications, a bout of sepsis, and more. Is massage therapy safe? We discuss on this episode of “I Have a Client Who . . .” Pathology Conversations with Ruth Werner.

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