Pennsylvania enacts new licensing requirements for massage therapists and bodywork employees

On February 20, 2025, the Pennsylvania Legislature introduced House Bill 663, a significant piece of legislation aimed at regulating the licensing of massage therapists and bodywork employees. The bill seeks to enhance public safety by establishing stringent requirements for applicants seeking to obtain a license in this field.

The primary purpose of House Bill 663 is to ensure that individuals who apply for a massage therapy license meet specific criteria that reflect their professional integrity and legal standing. Key provisions of the bill stipulate that applicants must be at least 18 years old and must not have a history of serious legal infractions that would disqualify them from practicing. Notably, the bill prohibits applicants who have voluntarily surrendered their licenses during a criminal investigation or those with prior convictions related to sexual offenses from obtaining a new license.

The bill also outlines that the Pennsylvania State Police, the Department of Human Services, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation will provide necessary information to the licensing bureau but will not have the authority to approve or deny applications. This provision aims to streamline the licensing process while maintaining a focus on public safety.

Debate surrounding House Bill 663 has centered on its implications for the massage therapy profession. Supporters argue that the bill is a crucial step toward protecting clients from potential abuse and ensuring that only qualified individuals are allowed to practice. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential for overly stringent regulations that could limit access to the profession for qualified individuals who may have made past mistakes.

The economic implications of the bill could be significant, as it may affect the availability of licensed massage therapists in Pennsylvania. If the bill leads to a decrease in the number of practitioners, it could impact the overall health and wellness industry in the state.

As House Bill 663 moves through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain. Experts suggest that the bill's success will depend on the balance it strikes between ensuring public safety and allowing qualified individuals to enter the profession. The ongoing discussions will likely shape the final version of the bill and its eventual impact on the massage therapy landscape in Pennsylvania.