Bill > SB233

This bill adopts the interstate massage compact, which is designed to create a multistate licensing system for massage therapists across participating states. The compact aims to reduce regulatory burdens, improve public access to massage therapy services, and enhance public safety by establishing a standardized framework for licensing and regulating massage therapists. Key provisions include creating a multistate license that allows massage therapists to practice in multiple states, implementing uniform background check requirements, and establishing an interstate commission to oversee the compact's administration. To qualify for a multistate license, massage therapists must hold an active single-state license, complete at least 625 hours of massage therapy education, pass a national licensing examination, and undergo a criminal background check. The bill prohibits individuals with certain criminal convictions from obtaining a multistate license, including those with felonies or misdemeanors related to massage therapy, human trafficking, sexual offenses, and other specified crimes within specific time frames. The compact creates an interstate commission with the power to develop rules, maintain a data system for tracking licensees, resolve disputes between states, and enforce compliance. The compact will become effective once seven states have enacted it into law, and member states can withdraw with a 180-day notice period. The bill also requires criminal background checks for massage therapy licensure in Montana, with applicants responsible for paying associated fees.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0868