MN SF1131

Establishes state registration for massage therapists and Asian bodywork therapists under the Commissioner of Health, with protected titles "registered massage therapist" (RMT) and "registered Asian bodywork therapist" (RABT) effective January 1, 2028

Requires applicants to complete postsecondary training programs (at least 625 contact hours including 500 hours instruction and 125 hours clinical practice for applications received on or after July 1, 2031), pass a credentialing examination, and maintain professional liability insurance of $2,000,000 per occurrence/$6,000,000 annual aggregate

Sets registration fees including initial registration up to $285, biennial renewal up to $185, and $50 for late fees, inactive status, and temporary registration; creates a five-member Massage Therapy Advisory Council with initial appointments by January 1, 2027

Preempts municipal licensure and regulation of massage therapists and Asian bodywork therapists effective July 1, 2028, while allowing municipalities to require business licenses for establishments and conduct background checks on non-registered owners

Establishes grounds for disciplinary action including criminal convictions (trafficking, sexual conduct, violent crimes), sexual misconduct with clients, malpractice, and fraud, with penalties including civil fines up to $10,000 per violation, registration suspension or revocation