Bill > HB1437

This bill proposes the Interstate Massage Compact, which aims to reduce the burdens on state governments and facilitate the interstate practice and regulation of massage therapy. The key provisions of the bill include: - Establishing a regulatory framework for a new multistate licensing program for massage therapists, with the goals of increasing public access to massage services, enhancing member states' ability to protect public health and safety, prevent human trafficking and licensure fraud, and support military members and their spouses. - Defining eligibility requirements for member states and applicants for multistate licenses, including licensing and regulatory mechanisms, educational and examination standards, and background check procedures. - Outlining the authority and responsibilities of the member states and the Interstate Massage Compact Commission, which will implement and administer the compact. - Describing the processes for adverse action against licensees, disciplinary cooperation between member states, and the use of a coordinated database and reporting system. - Providing for the Commission's rule-making authority, enforcement mechanisms, and dispute resolution procedures. Overall, the bill seeks to create a multistate licensing pathway for massage therapists while maintaining the member states' authority to regulate the practice of massage therapy within their borders.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1437&Year=2023&Initiative=false