#United States #Minnesota #Massage Therapy #AMTA

AMTA Advocates for Statewide Massage Therapy Licensure in Minnesota

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is leading an important legislative push in Minnesota to establish statewide licensure for massage therapists. As of now, Minnesota is among the few states lacking a unified system of regulation for massage therapy. The AMTA is urging local lawmakers and stakeholders to support House File 362 (HF 362) and Senate File 1131 (SF 1131) during the upcoming legislative session in 2026.

Importance of Massage Therapy Licensure

Licensure is vital not just for practitioners, but also for public safety and health care integrity. AMTA emphasizes that a regulated system will help elevate the standards of practice and establish accountability within the profession. AMTA's National President, Cindy Farrar, stated, “Statewide licensure is a critical step toward protecting the public and recognizing massage therapy as an essential part of health and wellness in Minnesota.”

The Benefits of a Unified Licensure System

1. Reduced Administrative Burdens: Currently, massage therapists face a complicated web of local ordinances and fees. A single state license would streamline compliance and cut down on the associated costs, especially for those practicing in multiple cities.

2. Increased Public Protection: Establishing licensure would create a clear framework to handle ethical violations and other misconduct. This ensures accountability and safeguards clients who seek therapeutic services.

3. Consistent Education and Professional Standards: A statewide license would set uniform educational requirements, ensuring that all licensed therapists meet the same standards for competence and professionalism, which in turn enhances public trust.

4. Recognition of Massage Therapy as Part of Healthcare: With formal licensure, massage therapy would be acknowledged as a legitimate component of healthcare in Minnesota. This alignment will foster better collaboration between massage therapists and other health professionals.

5. Pathway for Current Practitioners: The proposed legislation includes a licensure-by-prior-experience option, allowing trained, practicing therapists to maintain their client base without the need for additional schooling or testing, thereby ensuring minimal disruption in their services.

Support from the Massage Community

The push for licensure has seen strong backing from massage therapists throughout Minnesota. Practitioners have expressed that regulation will bolster professional credibility, enhance public safety, and provide consistency across the state.

AMTA remains committed to amplifying the voices of these therapists as they advocate for a more standardized practice within the state. The association encourages all Minnesota residents to get involved by reaching out to their state legislators to express support for HF 362 and SF 1131.

Conclusion

The AMTA’s initiative for statewide licensure aims to protect the public and strengthen the profession of massage therapy in Minnesota. By aligning Minnesota with the majority of states that already have regulatory frameworks in place, the AMTA is paving the way for a future where massage therapy is recognized for its importance in health and wellness.

For more information about the AMTA's work and how you can get involved, visit their website or contact your local representatives. Your voice can significantly impact the future of massage therapy in Minnesota.