Senate Bill 2446, also known as House Bill 2201, amends the Tennessee Code Annotated to create the "Interstate Massage Compact," which facilitates the practice and regulation of massage therapy across state lines. The compact aims to enhance public access to massage therapy services while ensuring safety and competence through a multistate licensing program. It includes provisions to protect public health, prevent human trafficking and licensure fraud, and support military families. The bill outlines requirements for states to join the compact, such as licensing and regulating massage therapy, conducting background checks, and investigating complaints. It also establishes the authority of the Interstate Massage Compact Commission to enforce regulations and take necessary actions against licensees.

The bill further details the structure and responsibilities of the Interstate Massage Compact Commission, which will consist of delegates from member states with voting rights. The commission is empowered to investigate violations, take adverse actions, and initiate legal proceedings. It also includes provisions for the procurement of insurance and the handling of civil actions related to commission duties, ensuring that members are defended against liabilities unless intentional misconduct is involved. Additionally, the bill mandates the development of a coordinated database for multistate licenses and outlines the rulemaking process for the commission. Key amendments include replacing "chapter" with "part" in various sections and clarifying that existing licensure agreements with non-member states remain valid. The compact will take effect once enacted by seven member states, with certain provisions becoming effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-18-101, 63-18-102, 63-18-103(i), 63-18-103, 63-18-103(j), 63-18-110(a), 63-18-110, 63-18-110(c), 63-18-111(a), 63-18-111, 63-18-111(d), 63-18-111(f), 63-18-112, 63-18-113