The proposed bill, HB1217, seeks to establish the Interstate Massage Compact in Arkansas, facilitating the interstate practice and regulation of massage therapy. This Compact aims to reduce regulatory burdens while improving public access to and safety of massage therapy services. It introduces a multistate licensing program that allows licensed massage therapists to practice across member states while ensuring that each state can enforce its own laws. The bill outlines objectives such as enhancing health and safety protections, preventing human trafficking and licensure fraud, and supporting military personnel and their families. It also creates a new subchapter in the Arkansas Code detailing the requirements for member states, including regulatory frameworks and adherence to national licensing standards.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Interstate Massage Compact Commission, which will oversee the administration of the Compact and ensure compliance among member states. The Commission is tasked with adopting rules, conducting investigations, and maintaining financial records, while also providing annual reports to member states for accountability. The bill emphasizes transparency by requiring public meetings and establishing guidelines for closed sessions. It also addresses the financing of the Commission, allowing it to accept revenue and levy assessments on member states. Furthermore, HB1217 includes provisions for oversight, dispute resolution, and enforcement, ensuring that the Compact remains effective even if the number of member states falls below seven. Overall, the bill aims to create a cohesive and efficient system for regulating massage therapy across state lines while enhancing operational transparency and accountability.