The bill, H.B. No. 2776, aims to establish stricter criminal and licensing regulations for massage establishments, schools, therapists, and instructors in Texas. It amends Section 455.152 of the Occupations Code to specify that individuals are ineligible for licensure if they have been convicted of certain offenses, including a range of sexual offenses and related crimes under both state and federal law. The bill expands the list of disqualifying offenses to include criminal attempts, conspiracies, or solicitations related to these crimes, thereby broadening the scope of ineligibility for licensure.

Additionally, the bill modifies Section 455.251(b) to mandate the revocation of licenses for massage therapists or instructors who are convicted of offenses outlined in Section 455.152. It also updates the definition of "health care services provider" in the Penal Code 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.

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