Introduced
by
To require licensure and regulation of massage therapists, and impose $75 annual license fees. The bill would create a Michigan Board of Massage Therapy to establish licensure and competence assessment requirements for the practice of massage therapy, and would require 500 hours of training. In addition to traditional methods, these could include (but would not be required to include) the Feldenkrais method, polarity therapy, and the Trager approach. The bill defines the "Trager approach" as a therapy which "combines physical movement with sensory awareness and internal imagery designed to increase self-awareness and generate physiological changes." The "Feldenkrais method" is defined as "a system of somatic education in which touch and words are used to eliminate faulty habits, learn new patterns of self-organization and action, and improve a person's own functional movement patterns." "Polarity therapy" is defined as "diverse applications affecting the human energy system and includes energetic approaches to somatic contact, verbal facilitation, nutrition, exercise, and health education".
Referred to the Committee on Health Policy
Reported without amendment
With the recommendation that the substitute (H-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
Substitute offered
To replace the previous version of the bill with one that does not require licensure for those who practice the Feldenkrais method, polarity therapy, and the Trager approach, and which also revises various details of the bill.
The substitute passed by voice vote
Amendment offered
by
To clarify a provision establishing the 500 hour training requirement to exercise the right to earn a living as a massage therapist.
The amendment passed by voice vote
Passed in the House 60 to 43 (details)
To require licensure and regulation of massage therapists, and impose $75 annual license fees. The bill would create a Michigan Board of Massage Therapy to establish licensure and competence assessment requirements for the practice of massage therapy, and would require 500 hours of training.
Referred to the Committee on Health Policy
