Recent News and Legislative Updates

New York Budget Proposal Would Tax Massage

12/31/2008

On December 16, 2008, Governor Paterson released the Executive Budget plan for 2009-2010. In an effort to reduce a record $13.7 billion budget deficit, the Executive Budget recommends increasing and extending taxes and fees along with spending cuts in virtually all government programs. If the recommended budget is passed, massage therapists would potentially be affected by three proposed measures:

Public Information Meeting Regarding New CO Regs of MTs

12/09/2008

From the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies: New Colorado legislation requires all massage therapists in Colorado must hold a certificate of registration by April 1, 2009. The Colorado Division of Registrations is holding public meetings on Thursday, December 18, 2008, to discuss these changes. The free session is an opportunity to learn more and ask questions about new registration and licensing rules, educational requirements, and important deadlines.   Date: Thursday, December 18, 2008

Minnesota

10/29/2008

Minnesota Update on Licensing Effort This email is being sent by ABMP at the request of the Alliance for Licensing Massage Therapists (ALMT). ABMP will continue to represent members with this organization. If you’re interested in becoming more involved you can register with the ALMT or contact Jean Robinson at jean@abmp.com.

Indiana

10/27/2008

The Indiana State Board of Massage Therapy intends to hold a public hearing on the proposed rules (LSA Document #08-351 and LSA Document # 08-352) on November 14, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. in the Indiana Government Center South, Professional Licensing Agency, 402 West Washington Street Conference Room W064, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Massachusetts

10/24/2008

View ABMP's comments on the proposed rules for establishments. The Board of Registration of Massage Therapy will be hosting a public hearing scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 31, 2008 at 239 Causeway Street, Second Floor, Boston, MA, 02114. Interested parties will be given an opportunity to present testimony orally or in writing at the hearing regarding proposed rules for massage therapy establishments. You may also mail or e-mail your comments.

Colorado

10/23/2008

The Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) is hosting an information session on Saturday November 8, 2008 from 9am-noon. The purpose is to provide professionals impacted by new legislation (i.e. Massage Therapists and Occupational Therapists) with information regarding the Department and the new registration requirements for both professions. Please see the link below for additional information: http://www.dora.state.co.us/registrations/2008_LegOutreachAnnounce.pdf

Licensing Bill Signed by Governor

10/10/2008

House Bill 2499, a legislative proposal to license massage therapists, was signed into law by Governor Rendell yesterday. The law requires the governor to appoint a regulatory board to implement the law. The board will consist of six massage therapists, two members of the public, and three representatives from different government departments. ABMP will inform members when the governor begins accepting applications to be appointed to the board. The board will have the responsibility of writing rules and regulations to implement the law, including an application process.

Michigan

09/30/2008

House Bill 5651, sponsored by Representative Paul Condino, passed the Senate Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Committee unanimously on Wednesday, September 24th. The bill would require massage therapists to obtain a state license to practice and create a board of massage therapy to implement the process. If passed, a state license would pre-empt local regulations; only one license would be needed.

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