The proposed bill establishes the Massage Therapist Licensure Act in Kansas, setting forth the requirements and regulations for individuals seeking licensure as massage therapists. It defines key terms such as "licensed massage therapist" and "massage therapy," and outlines qualifications for licensure, including age, education, and completion of a nationally recognized competency examination. A grandfathering provision is included for currently practicing massage therapists, allowing them to obtain a license based on their training hours or years of practice. The bill also details the responsibilities of the state board of healing arts, which will oversee the licensure process, establish fees, and enforce continuing education requirements for license renewal.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to enhance licensure requirements, mandating fingerprinting and state and national criminal history record checks for initial applicants. It grants the board authority to set fees for these checks and outlines grounds for refusing or revoking a license, such as incompetence or criminal convictions. New provisions require massage therapists to maintain professional liability insurance and prohibit local governments from creating their own licensing requirements. The bill also ensures the confidentiality of criminal history information obtained during the licensure process, with penalties for unauthorized disclosure. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen the regulatory framework for massage therapy in Kansas, promoting public safety and professional accountability.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-4714