The State Board of Massage Therapy (Board) published proposed rules in the Pennsylvania Bulletin that would require new license applicants and current licensees to complete mandatory training to help practitioners recognize child abuse.
The Board invites you to submit written comments, suggestions, or objections regarding this proposed rule to RA-STRegulatoryCounsel@pa.gov by July 14.
Background Info
Other health-related boards in Pennsylvania have amended their rules so that “mandated reporters” must complete training in child abuse recognition. The proposed rules would add LMTs to the list of health professionals considered mandated reporters, therefore requiring them to complete similar child abuse recognition training.
The Training: Who Completes It and How Often?
The proposed rules would require:
- All individuals applying to the Board for an initial license to complete at least three hours of training in child abuse recognition and reporting
- All licensees applying for license renewal to complete at least two hours of continuing education (CE) in child abuse recognition and reporting
- These two CE hours would be a part of your 24 hours of CE required for your license renewal (you would not have to complete 26 hours of CE)
- There are 71 approved course providers offering 94 approved courses on the Board's website
Have your voice heard and submit comments to RA-STRegulatoryCounsel@pa.gov by July 14.