SB3516 Summary

• Creates the Traditional Asian Healing Therapist Licensing Act to regulate Asian bodywork therapy, clinical Qigong therapy, and Thai bodywork therapy through the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation beginning July 1, 2020.

• Requires practitioners to obtain a license by meeting minimum 600 hours of training, passing competency examinations (including NCCAOM or other approved exams), submitting fingerprints for criminal background check, and being at least 18 years old with good moral character.

• Establishes a 7-member Traditional Asian Healing Therapist Licensing Board (6 therapists with 3+ years experience, 1 public member) in an advisory capacity to the Department regarding professional standards, discipline, and licensee qualifications.

• Allows current practitioners to obtain licenses during a one-year grace period by proving prior membership in recognized professional organizations, relevant certifications, or at least one year of prior practice with 200 hours of formal training.

• Sets disciplinary grounds including professional incompetence, immoral conduct, false advertising, practicing beyond scope, and criminal convictions; creates penalties up to $1,000 fines and license revocation; repeals the Act on January 1, 2031.