Bill > HF362

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for massage therapy and Asian bodywork therapy in Minnesota, creating a new licensing system and establishing professional standards. The bill requires practitioners to obtain a license from the commissioner of health by meeting specific educational requirements, including completing a postsecondary program with at least 625 contact hours of training (500 hours of instruction and 125 hours of clinical practice) and passing a credentialing examination. Licensees must obtain professional liability insurance, renew their license every two years, and complete continuing education. The bill creates a five-member Massage Therapy Advisory Council to advise the commissioner on standards, licensure, and disciplinary matters. Practitioners are prohibited from practicing without a license starting January 1, 2027, and are subject to strict professional conduct standards, including maintaining client confidentiality, avoiding sexual misconduct, and practicing within defined scope of practice. The bill also sets fees for initial licensure (up to $285), renewal (up to $185), and other administrative processes, and preempts municipal licensing of massage therapists while allowing municipalities to require business permits. Exemptions are provided for certain healthcare providers, complementary and alternative health practitioners, and specific situations like emergency response or family care. The bill includes provisions for disciplinary actions, including potential license revocation for serious misconduct, and establishes a process for investigating and addressing professional violations.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0362&ssn=0&y=2025