“Indiana is one of the few states solely requiring certification when practicing massage therapy,” Sen. Arnold said. “We must also require licensure to increase professionalism within this field and ensure individuals seeking these therapies are protected.” 

Senate Bill (SB) 573 proposes individuals be licensed by the State Board of Massage Therapy (BMS) to practice massage therapy in Indiana. Currently, practicing massage therapists are only required to be certified by the BMS.

The bill would also retroactively license massage therapists with valid certifications before June 30, 2013. Individuals permitted to perform massage therapy without licenses include some health care providers and un-compensated students completing licensing requirements.

Individuals who practice massage therapy without a license would receive a Class B misdemeanor, resulting in a fine of up to $1,000 or 180 days in jail.

After passing unanimously out of the Senate Public Policy Committee, SB 573 was approved by the full Senate with a vote of 38-11 and now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Sen. Arnold represents District 8 in the Indiana State Senate which encompasses the majority of LaPorte County including the City of LaPorte and the eastern part of Michigan City. It also includes western St. Joseph County and Davis, Oregon, Washington, Center and Jackson townships in Starke County.

For more information on Sen. Arnold, his legislative agenda or other State Senate business call 1-800-382-9467 or visit www.IN.gov/S8.

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NOTE: A photo of Sen. Jim Arnold can be downloaded at: http://www.in.gov/legislative/senate_democrats/images/headshots/Arnold.jpg