Bill > S261

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for alternative healing therapies in Massachusetts, expanding the existing massage therapy licensing system to include a broader range of complementary health practices. The legislation creates a new board of registration that will oversee alternative healing therapists, including practices like Asian bodywork therapy, reflexology, structural integration, and other energy and somatic healing practices. The bill requires practitioners to obtain a license, which involves meeting specific qualifications such as being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma, submitting professional references, demonstrating good moral character, completing a certified training program, and obtaining professional liability coverage. The legislation also establishes an advisory council to help define and regulate different alternative healing therapy disciplines, sets standards for professional conduct and education, and provides mechanisms for investigating complaints and disciplining practitioners who violate professional standards. Additionally, the bill clarifies that alternative healing therapists cannot perform medical diagnoses, prescribe medications, or perform joint manipulations, and it allows local municipalities some flexibility in regulating these practices while maintaining a consistent statewide standard. The goal is to protect public health and safety by ensuring that alternative healing therapy practitioners are properly trained, credentialed, and held to professional standards.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S261