Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/121374
Government Relations By Jean Robinson Read Your Rules and Regulations Rules related to massage and bodywork vary by state, and it is your responsibility as a licensee to know the rules and regulations adopted by the regulatory board you are licensed by. Here is what is happening in New Jersey, Michigan, and Idaho. New Jersey Applications for licensure were made available by the state of New Jersey on September 4, 2012. ABMP sent notification (by email and mail) to members, along with detailed instructions on how to apply. The Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy indicated at its meeting in September 2012 that it would begin enforcement of the law on March 4, 2013. The board essentially gave applicants five months to complete the licensing application process before cracking down on unlicensed practices. However, there is still a significant backlog of applications waiting to be processed, so many applicants have not yet received their licenses. If you practice in New Jersey and have not received your state license yet, ABMP recommends that you keep a copy of your application in your place of business so, if questioned, you have evidence that you applied in a timely manner. The board's enforcement date may change due to the backlog, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Keep your documentation handy! Michigan Applications for Michigan massage therapy licensing are now available. This is not voluntary; all massage therapists are required to obtain a license by November 29, 2014, in order to practice. Although there is plenty of time, ABMP recommends you begin the license application process as soon as you can. All applicants will have to complete the application, pay the fee, submit fingerprints, and complete a background check. Grandfathering The term grandfathering relates to the qualifications required for existing practitioners to obtain a license for a certain period of time without having to meet the education and exam requirements set out for new practitioners. Grandfathering does not mean you don't have to apply. Everyone must submit an application if they plan to practice massage therapy in a state that regulates the profession. Grandfathering applications will be available or accepted in New Jersey until August 30, 2013; in Michigan until November 29, 2014; and in Idaho until July 1, 2014. When grandfathering application deadlines expire, all new applicants must meet both the education and exam requirement to qualify for a license. DS 4 May June 2013 Stay Updated Help us help you by making sure we have your current contact information, especially your email address. Log in to www.abmp.com to update your information, and visit the News & Resources page at www.abmp.com/ news, and the Legislative Map in the Members section under "State Legislative Information," for links to state board websites and legislative updates relating to licensing and regulation. There has been an onslaught of legislative activity so far in 2013, so check in periodically. Idaho Applications for licensing are now available in Idaho. All massage therapists in Idaho will have to become licensed by July 1, 2013, in order to continue practicing. This is a tight deadline, but there is no reason to panic—it has been done before in other states. In April, ABMP sent an email to members outlining the steps to take in the application process. If you have questions, email ABMP Government Relations Coordinator Nancy Potter at nancy@abmp.com. As evidenced by these updates, legislative and regulatory processes can vary substantially state by state. ABMP is committed to helping members navigate the process in their state and will provide as much instruction and assistance as possible to ensure members affected by new regulations are informed and meet deadlines as required by law. Jean Robinson is ABMP's director of government relations. To get the latest updates on all legislative and regulatory activities affecting the world of massage and bodywork, visit www.abmp.com.