House Bill 2201, also known as Senate Bill 2446, seeks to establish the "Interstate Massage Compact" within Tennessee law, specifically in Title 63, Chapter 18. This compact is designed to facilitate the interstate practice and regulation of massage therapy, allowing licensed therapists to practice across member states while ensuring public safety and competence. The bill outlines a multistate licensing program, sets requirements for member states regarding licensing, complaint investigations, and background checks, and emphasizes the protection of public health, prevention of human trafficking, and support for military families. It also establishes the Interstate Massage Compact Commission, which will oversee the compact's administration, enforce state laws, and manage joint investigations among member states.

The bill includes provisions for the commission's governance, including the roles and responsibilities of its delegates, financing through assessments and fees, and protections for commission members against liability, except in cases of intentional misconduct. It details the rulemaking process, oversight, and dispute resolution mechanisms, ensuring that the compact remains effective even if the number of member states falls below seven. Additionally, the bill amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to ensure consistency in terminology and clarifies that existing licensure agreements with non-member states remain valid. The act will take effect upon becoming law for rule promulgation purposes, with other provisions 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