Legislative Advocacy for Massage Therapists and Bodyworkers

group of people in discussion

ABMP’s Government Relations Department advocates on behalf of our members for reasonable regulation of the massage therapy profession in all 50 states. We keep our members informed about proposed legislation and regulations and let them know how to get involved in the process and have their voices heard.

Click on one of the links below for more information. You can always get in touch with ABMP’s Government Relations team at gr@abmp.com to let us know what regulation-related issues are concerning you, and also what’s working. Tell us what you’re hearing in your state, city, or town regarding massage legislation and regulation, past, present, or future. Let us know if we can help advocate on your behalf.

How ABMP Advocates for You

How to Get Involved

Legislative Updates and Policy Developments

State Licensing Requirements

MAKE SURE YOU'RE PROTECTED

ABMP offers the profession’s highest aggregate coverages available: $2 million per incident, $6 million total per policy year. You never have to fear if the insurance coverage will be there for you.

Gainful Employment Rules Compliance Updates

04/16/2024

Over the past two weeks, the US Department of Education issued updates to the new “Gainful Employment” (GE) regulations for vocational programs published last fall. This web post addresses the updates to prepare school owners and educators ahead of the July 1, 2024, new GE rule effective date.

New Study Reconfirms the Benefits of Touch

04/12/2024

A recent study found that touch interventions were effective in helping regulate cortisol levels, reducing feelings of depression in adults, and having other significant benefits.

Louisiana Bill Proposes Massage Program Hour Increase

04/09/2024

Effective October 1, 2024, Louisiana massage students will no longer be eligible for federal financial aid because massage programs are limited by Louisiana law. But there is a solution: Senate Bill 353 will increase the required education hours for massage licensure from 500 to 625. ABMP fully supports this bill, and we explain why you should too.

Massage Therapists: How Adaptable Are You?

04/12/2024

A massage therapist works on a client's neck area.

Every session requires the therapist to adapt to the needs of the client. Can you adapt?

What Is a Certificate of Insurance and Why Do I Need One?

03/14/2024

At some point, an employer, venue, or landlord might ask you for proof that you have insurance for your work as a massage therapist. Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP) can help with that.

ABMP CE Summit: Headaches

02/28/2024

Headaches.

Join us online Tuesday, April 30, 2024, for the ABMP CE Summit: Headaches, which take learners on a journey from understanding headaches to working with clients with headache pain using multiple modalities and techniques.

Podcast: Lower Expenses and Increase Income in Your Massage Business

04/18/2024

Tune in to this episode of Business or Pressure with host Allissa Haines to hear money saving tips and how to generate more income.

Podcast: Cancer, Clots, and COVID—A Complicated Client

03/20/2024

A client was recently treated for colon cancer—and it didn’t go well. She had surgical complications, a bout of sepsis, and more. Is massage therapy safe? We discuss on this episode of “I Have a Client Who . . .” Pathology Conversations with Ruth Werner.

Podcast: The 4 Numbers to Know in Your Massage Business

03/07/2024

Business or Pressure host Allissa Haines discusses the four numbers to know to consider the sustainability of your business.