Recent News and Legislative Updates

Oregon Exempts Certain Practitioners from Massage Licensing

05/19/2011

SB 454 was signed by Governor Kitzhaber on 5/16/2011. The law exempts individuals who are practicing energy work or movement education from massage therapy licensing provided that the individual's services are not designated or implied to be massage or massage therapy and he or she is “certified by a professional organization or credentialing agency.” The State Board of Massage Therapists has the authority to verify that a practitioner claiming to be exempt is “certified” as required.

Idaho SB 1078 Withdrawn by Sponsor

05/19/2011

SB 1078 was formally withdrawn by Senator Hammond (the bill sponsor) when it became clear that Senate Health and Welfare Committee would not have time to consider it. While on the surface it may seem disappointing to many people, the good news is that we have been able to complete an excellent draft bill this year that has the support of key massage therapy organizations, other licensed healthcare professions, and state regulatory departments. If the political climate is more favorable in 2012, expect the bill to be introduced again.

New Advertising Requirements in Washington

05/19/2011

HB 1133, signed into law by Governor Gregoire on May 3, 2011, will require massage practitioners to include their name and license number on all advertisements and conspicuously display his or her license in his or her principal place of business. If the massage practitioner does not have a principal place of business or conducts business in multiple locations, he or she must have a copy of his or her license available for inspection while performing any activities related to massage therapy. The law goes into effect on July 22, 2011.

North Dakota Exempts Energy Work from Massage Licensing

05/19/2011

HB 1304 was signed into law by Governor Dalrymple on April 5, 2011. The law exempts individuals who are practicing energy work from massage therapy licensing as long as they are not manipulating the soft tissue of the human body (not including a soft touch or tap), provided that the individual's services are not designated or implied to be massage or massage therapy.

Iowa Will Increase Entry-level Education Requirements

05/19/2011

HF 593 was signed by Governor Branstad on 4/13/2011. The law increases the entry-level education required for licensure from 500 to 600 hours. However, educational requirements under this paragraph are subject to reduction by the board if, after public notice and hearing, the board determines that the welfare of the public may be adequately protected with fewer hours of education.

Bill Aims to Increase Entry-Level Education Requirements in MA - Again

05/05/2011

Senate bill 90, sponsored by Senator Chang-Diaz , would increase the entry-level education required for licensure of massage therapists. ABMP is strongly opposed to SB 90. If passed, first time applicants for a license to practice massage therapy would have to complete a 900 hour massage program to qualify for a license to practice.

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