Bill > SB275

This bill makes several changes to the Massage Therapy Practice Act in New Mexico. It deletes references to massage therapy instructors, adds a scope of practice provision, expands continuing education requirements, and makes various technical changes. Specifically, the bill: 1) Defines key terms like "continuing education", "continuing education provider", and "massage therapy". 2) Requires individuals to be licensed as massage therapists in order to provide massage therapy services for compensation. 3) Outlines the powers of the Massage Therapy Board, including establishing standards for licensure, continuing education, and school registrations. 4) Specifies the requirements for licensure as a massage therapist, including completing at least 650 hours of education. 5) Allows the Board to establish continuing education requirements for license renewal and approve continuing education courses. 6) Establishes a process for inactive license status and reactivation. 7) Requires massage therapists and schools to include their license/registration numbers in advertising. 8) Allows the Board to take disciplinary action against licensees and deny licenses to applicants under certain circumstances. 9) Creates criminal penalties for practicing massage therapy without a license. 10) Establishes a registration process for massage therapy schools. 11) Defines the scope of practice for massage therapy as the assessment and treatment of soft tissues to relieve pain and improve physical function.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=275&year=17