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Arkansas Introduces Interstate Massage Compact

02/03/2025
  • Improve portability
  • Reduce red tape
  • Ensure safety

Full tank of gas? Check. Massage table? Check. Multistate massage license . . . Almost. Sounds like a great idea, right—a license that allows you to leave your home state and practice in another? Well, it’s a possibility that Arkansas wants to make a reality!

The state legislature introduced House Bill 1217 (HB 1217), which would adopt the Interstate Massage Compact (IMpact) and simplify interstate massage therapy practice. Essentially, HB 1217 will make it easier for licensed massage therapists to work in other states

Once at least seven states pass the IMpact, licensed massage therapists will be able to temporarily move from one state to another by applying for a multistate license without long application wait times or a hiatus between practicing. Arkansas should be an Impact-participating state! 

To obtain a multistate license, eligible massage therapists will be required to have at least 625 hours of massage therapy education and to have passed a national examination. They will also need to have a clean background check and no encumbrances or disciplinary action against their license in their home state. Learn more about the Interstate Massage Compact here.

ABMP is in favor of HB 1217 and sent a letter of support to the Arkansas legislature ahead of an upcoming committee hearing. If you believe an interstate license would benefit massage therapists, write a letter to your representatives. Feel free to model your letter after ours and share your own experiences with lawmakers. Find your state representatives here. Let’s advance safe and effective licensure mobility solutions together!

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