Legislative and Policy Developments

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Note: to view this feed by state, visit our State Licensing Requirements page and click on your state, then "View legislative updates" inside the informational pop-up.

Mississippi Proposes New Massage Therapy Rules

House Bill No. 1263 passed this legislative session, and the included provisions require an amendment to the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy Rules and Regulations. You can submit commentary to the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy showing your support or opposition to the proposed rules no later than August 11, 2021.

Washington Issues a New COVID-19 Guidance Document

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries issued new guidance addressing how to verify employee vaccination status, how to protect unvaccinated staff, and when employees need to wear masks. Per the new guidance, individuals who work in the health-care industry, such as massage therapists, must continue to wear a mask while at work.

New Massage Therapy Management Requirements in Connecticut

House Bill No. 6666 passed this legislative session and requires every business that employs a massage therapist to be under the management of a licensed massage therapist, hairdresser, cosmetician, esthetician, eyelash technician, or nail technician.

Changes to the Louisiana Massage Practice Act

House Bill No. 531 passed this legislative session and amends multiple sections of the Louisiana Massage Practice Act, including scope of practice, continuing education, and renewal requirements. It also modifies the look of LA massage therapy license.

New Massage Consultation Form for Texas Massage Therapists

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation released a revised Massage Consultation Document for massage therapists. Use their checklist to make sure your current document is in compliance with the new requirements.

Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Seeks New Board Member

There is currently one seat open to a licensed massage therapist on the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy, and Governor Ducey’s office is looking for qualified applicants. ABMP encourages interested and eligible members to consider applying for an appointment, as it’s a way to become more engaged in the profession. Find out how!

California Seeks Deregulations

ABMP is in favor of Senate Bill 803 to further the sunset of the Barbering and Cosmetology Board, with some suggested amendments. ABMP is concerned about deregulating haircutting, hairstyling, and eyelash extensions, and including massage in the scope of practice for estheticians. ABMP details the potential negative impact on public health and safety.

Comments on California Senate Bill 803

ASCP, AHP, and ANP are in favor of Senate Bill 803, furthering the sunset of the Barbering and Cosmetology Board, with some suggested amendments. The Associations are concerned about the deregulation of haircutting and hairstyling currently in the bill and the potential negative impact on public health and safety.

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