A new law will affect how licensed massage therapists (LMTs) and registered massage practitioners (RMPs) may advertise their services and may require professionals and businesses to update advertising materials across platforms.
Governor Wes Moore signed into law House Bill 975 (HB 975), creating new advertising requirements. The changes were designed to promote clarity and professionalism and increase consumer protection within the massage community.
Required Information on Advertisements
All advertisements for massage therapy services must now include:
- The full name of the LMT or RMP providing the service
- The license or registration number associated with that provider
If a business employs multiple therapists, the business can simply advertise under its business name. However, if any individual therapist is mentioned in the advertisement, they must be identified using their exact name as it appears on their license. This applies to websites, printed materials, signage, and online listings.
Name Consistency Requirement
If an advertisement includes the name of an LMT or RMP, the name must match the name printed on the license or registration issued by the Maryland Board of Massage Therapy Examiners (Board). No nicknames, abbreviations, or alternate spellings will be permitted in ads.
Trade Names
Trade names may still be used in advertisements, but they can’t be misleading and must clearly connect the advertised services to a licensed therapist.
Penalties
Failure to follow the new requirements by May 1, 2027, may result in disciplinary action by the Board. All new advertising rules take effect October 1, 2026.