Rhode Island Senate Bill S2625

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/24
• Refer: 3/1/24
• Report Pass: 6/6/24
• Engrossed: 6/11/24
• Engrossed: 6/13/24
• Passed: 6/26/24

Caption

Relocates the chapter relating to licensing of massage therapists from the health and safety title to the businesses and professions title with multiple amendments.

Impact

The bill introduces key amendments including mandatory educational prerequisites for licensure—specifically, applicants must complete at least 650 hours of practical training, undergo a national criminal background check, and pass an approved examination. Furthermore, it formalizes continuing education requirements for licensed massage therapists, ensuring that professionals maintain current knowledge and skills necessary for safe practice. These provisions are geared towards enhancing the professionalism of the field and providing greater assurance to the public regarding the competency of service providers.

Summary

S2625, also known as the Rhode Island Massage Therapy Practice Act, is designed to regulate the practice of massage therapy in order to safeguard public health and safety. This bill relocates the licensing requirements for massage therapists from the health and safety title to the businesses and professions title. By doing so, it establishes a formal structure for oversight through a newly defined board tasked with licensing, regulating, and setting professional standards for massage therapists within the state.

Contention

While proponents of S2625 argue that it enhances safety and professionalism within the massage therapy profession, critics have raised concerns regarding potential barriers to entry. Some argue that the stringent qualifications could discourage aspiring therapists from pursuing licensure, thereby limiting the availability of services in some areas. Additionally, there is apprehension about the implications of regulatory overreach and whether existing practitioners may find it challenging to comply with new requirements, particularly those who have been practicing without formal licensing for extended periods.