AR SB58

Creates three new definitions: "massage therapy apprentice" (person enrolled in an apprenticeship program meeting federal guidelines in 29 C.F.R. Part 29), "massage therapy apprenticeship program" (approved by U.S. Office of Apprenticeship), and "massage therapy learning permit" (valid for up to 6 months after program completion).

Requires applicants for massage therapy school, postsecondary massage therapy school, or apprenticeship program enrollment to obtain a massage therapy learning permit from the Department of Health before January 1, 2024, by providing proof of age 18+, criminal background check, identification documents, and enrollment confirmation.

Prohibits massage therapy schools and apprenticeship programs from enrolling students or apprentices without a valid massage therapy learning permit issued by the department.

Allows massage therapy students and apprentices to practice under direct supervision of a licensed instructor for up to 6 months after graduation or program completion without holding a full massage therapist license.

Permits individuals enrolled or graduated before January 1, 2024, to seek licensure under previous requirements, while those enrolling on or after that date must comply with the new massage therapy learning permit process and criminal background check provisions.