The bill revises Louisiana's massage therapy regulations by amending several sections, specifically R.S. 37:3552, 3555, 3556, 3559, 3561, and 3564, while repealing R.S. 37:3556.1. It introduces new definitions such as "asynchronous distance learning," "applicant," and "licensure," which clarify terminology within the field. The updated licensure requirements now mandate a minimum of 625 hours of training, including specific hours dedicated to anatomy, Louisiana law, and ethics, and permit a mix of in-person and distance learning. Additionally, the bill establishes stricter advertising regulations, ensuring that only licensed individuals can use massage-related terms in their promotions and that advertisements must include the licensed therapist's name and number.

Moreover, the bill modifies the criminal background check process for applicants, allowing direct access to criminal history records from the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information. Licensed massage therapists are required to display their identification cards publicly, and the bill outlines renewal requirements, including background checks and continuing education. The advertising regulations are further tightened to prohibit unlicensed individuals from using "massage" in their promotions and to ensure that all advertisements are appropriate and devoid of any prurient appeal. The bill will take effect following the enactment of a related federal educational requirement amendment and will become law upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without a signature.

Statutes affected:
SB353 Original: 37:3552(11), 37:3555(A)(14), 37:3556(A)(1), 37:3559(A), 37:3561(A)(2), 37:3564(A)
SB353 Engrossed: 37:3552(11), 37:3555(A)(14), 37:3556(A)(1), 37:3559(A), 37:3561(A)(2), 37:3564(A)
SB353 Reengrossed: 37:3555(A)(14), 37:3556(A)(1), 37:3559(A), 37:3561(A)(2), 37:3564(A)
SB353 Enrolled: 37:3555(A)(14), 37:3556(A)(1), 37:3559(A), 37:3561(A)(2), 37:3564(A)
SB353 Act : 37:3555(A)(14), 37:3556(A)(1), 37:3559(A), 37:3561(A)(2), 37:3564(A)