The proposed bill would update current statutes by establishing a continuation study committee for the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy, which is set to terminate on July 1, 2027. The bill repeals section 41-3025.10 and introduces new provisions under section 41-3027.09, detailing the composition and responsibilities of the study committee. This committee will consist of 12 members, including representatives from both the Senate and House, as well as various stakeholders from the massage therapy field and law enforcement. The committee is tasked with evaluating the board's structure, the effectiveness of its technology, and the potential need for an establishment license to combat sex trafficking.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the study committee produce a report by December 31, 2026, outlining its recommendations and findings. It also includes provisions for the reimbursement of committee members' expenses and specifies that the committee will be dissolved after June 30, 2027. The bill emphasizes the importance of the board in promoting safe massage therapy practices and retroactively applies its provisions from July 1, 2025. An emergency clause is included to ensure the bill's immediate implementation upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-3025.10, 41-3029.15
House Engrossed Version: 41-3025.10, 41-3027.09