HB 463 Summary

• Phases out the two-tier licensure system by eliminating the massage technician category over a 3-year transition period; Board will no longer accept new massage technician applications upon enactment, and all existing certificates will expire 3 years after enactment.

• Requires all current massage technicians to become licensed massage and bodywork therapists within 3 years by passing an examination; technicians with current active certification are exempt from education requirements but must pass an exam to achieve licensure.

• Modifies Board composition 3 years after enactment to consist of 4 licensed massage and bodywork therapists and 3 public members (currently includes massage technician representatives).

• Expands Board authority to adopt rules regarding advertising, unprofessional conduct, and requires licensees to undergo criminal background checks; adds grounds for discipline including unprofessional conduct and authorizes monetary penalties up to $500 per violation.

• Increases education requirements for new applicants: massage and bodywork therapists must complete 500 hours of education including 75 hours of anatomy/physiology and 25 hours of ethics, law and contraindications.