AB 1147 Summary

• Establishes the California Massage Therapy Council as a nonprofit organization to certify massage therapists and practitioners through a voluntary certification program with a 13-member board of directors beginning September 15, 2015.

• Requires massage therapist applicants to complete at least 500 hours of education from approved schools and pass a competency exam; discontinues new massage practitioner certifications after January 1, 2015 but allows renewals of previously issued certificates.

• Authorizes the council to deny applications and discipline certificate holders for unprofessional conduct including sexually suggestive advertising, sexual activity while providing massage services, and improper attire; allows immediate interim suspension for arrests involving sex-related offenses.

• Prohibits cities and counties from enacting ordinances that conflict with state certification requirements but permits local regulation of zoning, business licensing, and reasonable health and safety standards for massage establishments.

• Establishes fees not to exceed $300 for certification and renewal; requires board to provide 90 days' notice before voting to increase fees and mandates a legislative report by June 1, 2016 on licensure feasibility and council performance metrics.