NC H451

Establishes state licensing requirements for massage and bodywork therapy establishments, requiring owners to obtain Board approval before opening, operating, or advertising such facilities.

Requires massage and bodywork therapy establishment owners to submit applications including proof of liability insurance, criminal history clearance, ownership information, facility self-inspection reports, and proof of employing licensed therapists.

Sets establishment licensure fees up to $20 for application, $150 for initial license, $100 for renewal, $75 for late renewal penalty, $25 for duplicate license, and $150 for inspection.

Prohibits sexual activity or solicitation of sexual activity at massage establishments and prohibits employment of unlicensed massage and bodywork therapists, with violations punishable as Class 1 misdemeanors.

Requires individual massage and bodywork therapists to obtain a statewide privilege license and adds massage and bodywork therapists to the list of professionals required to obtain a privilege license tax under G.S. 105-41, effective July 1, 2018.