The bill significantly revises the regulation of massage therapists by repealing Chapter 23-20.8 of the General Laws, which previously governed the licensing of massage therapists in Rhode Island. It removes definitions, qualifications, and duties of the Rhode Island State Board of Licensed Massage Therapists, as well as licensure requirements and practice regulations. The bill also eliminates language concerning the use of professional titles by unlicensed individuals, continuing education requirements, application fees, background checks, and the powers and duties of the massage therapy board. New legal language is inserted to create sections for the application and issuance or denial of licenses, suspension and revocation of licenses, and judicial review of license actions, but the specific content of these insertions is not detailed in the provided text.

The bill further amends the law by removing exemptions that allowed certain individuals to practice massage therapy without a Rhode Island license, including licensed professionals from other fields, nonresident therapists, and graduates from approved educational programs practicing under supervision. It introduces Chapter 93, "Licensing of Massage Therapists," which includes the "Rhode Island Massage Therapy Practice Act" to ensure that only qualified individuals practice massage therapy. The act defines key terms, outlines the scope of practice, and sets criteria for approved educational programs. It also establishes title protection, mandates the display of license information, and details the composition and duties of the new Rhode Island State Board of Licensed Massage Therapists. The bill outlines the board's powers, qualifications for licensure, and procedures for licensure and renewal, including continuing education requirements. Lastly, it introduces provisions for disciplinary actions, grounds for disciplinary action, and penalties for unlicensed practice, emphasizing the protection of public health and welfare.