Senate Bill No. 221, introduced by Senator Mizell, aims to enhance the regulation of massage therapy in Louisiana by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. The bill mandates that the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy conduct unannounced inspections within ten days of receiving complaints alleging illicit activities at massage therapy establishments. It also expands the board's authority to require criminal background checks for all individuals applying for a massage therapist establishment license, as well as for all renewing applicants, regardless of their initial licensing date.

Additionally, the bill establishes annual reporting requirements for the board, which must submit a comprehensive report to the legislature by March 1st each year. This report will include details such as the total number of complaints received, summaries of each complaint, inspection results, and statistics on active licenses, new licenses, renewals, suspensions, and revocations. The report will also provide insights into the outcomes of resolved complaints, including any administrative or legal actions taken. The proposed changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
SB221 Original: 37:3555(A)(11), 37:3561(A)(2)