SB 348 Summary

• Requires individuals to obtain a state license from the board of massage therapy to practice massage therapy, changing from the previous voluntary certification system.

• Establishes licensure requirements including minimum age of 18, high school diploma, completion of at least 500 hours of supervised massage therapy instruction, passage of an approved examination, and professional liability insurance.

• Allows the board to approve massage therapy school curricula and denies licensure to applicants convicted of prostitution, rape, sexual misconduct, or registered as sex offenders.

• Creates exceptions permitting unlicensed practice by out-of-state licensed therapists during emergencies or charity events, students completing clinical requirements, and health care providers acting within their scope of practice.

• Preempts local ordinances and regulations concerning massage therapist licensing, except for local zoning requirements and occupational license fees.

• Effective July 1, 2014, with automatic transition of individuals certified as of June 30, 2014 to licensed status.