S.B. No. 703 aims to amend the Occupations Code regarding the eligibility and licensing of massage establishments, schools, therapists, and instructors in Texas. The bill specifies that individuals are ineligible for a license if they have been convicted of certain offenses, including those under Chapter 20A of the Penal Code and various other specified sections. Notably, the bill expands the list of disqualifying offenses to include criminal attempts, conspiracies, or solicitations related to these offenses, as well as similar offenses under federal law or other states' laws.

Additionally, the bill mandates the revocation of licenses for massage therapists or instructors who are convicted of offenses described in the newly amended Section 455.152. It also updates the definition of "health care services provider" to include licensed massage therapists. The Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement these changes, which will take effect on September 1, 2025. The bill passed both the Senate and House with overwhelming support.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 455.251, Penal Code 22.011 (Occupations Code 455, Penal Code 22)
Senate Committee Report: Occupations Code 455.251, Penal Code 22.011 (Occupations Code 455, Penal Code 22)
Engrossed: Occupations Code 455.251, Penal Code 22.011 (Occupations Code 455, Penal Code 22)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 455.251, Penal Code 22.011 (Occupations Code 455, Penal Code 22)
Enrolled: Occupations Code 455.251, Penal Code 22.011 (Occupations Code 455, Penal Code 22)