Arkansas debates massage therapy laws to combat human trafficking and improve licensing

In a recent meeting of the Arkansas House Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee, discussions centered around the complexities and inconsistencies of massage therapy regulations across the United States. The meeting, held on February 20, 2025, highlighted the urgent need for legislative reform to address these disparities, particularly in relation to human trafficking concerns.

A passionate advocate for stronger regulations, who provides trauma touch massage at women's shelters, emphasized the stark differences in massage therapy laws from state to state. For instance, while Arkansas has a relatively robust framework, other states like Nevada impose strict penalties, such as denying licenses for failure to pay child support. The speaker pointed out alarming gaps in Arkansas's current laws, including instances where individuals with serious criminal backgrounds have been granted massage therapy licenses.

The conversation also touched on the issue of reciprocity for massage therapists moving to Arkansas from other states. Currently, those relocating are not required to take the Arkansas massage therapy law exam, which raises concerns about their familiarity with local regulations. The advocate argued that this lack of requirement could lead to unqualified practitioners entering the state, potentially exacerbating issues related to human trafficking.

In response to these concerns, Ashley Smith, a master massage therapist and small business owner, voiced her support for a proposed bill aimed at streamlining licensing portability for massage therapists. This legislation would allow qualified professionals to practice across state lines more easily, thereby enhancing job opportunities, especially for military spouses. Smith highlighted the bill's potential to improve staffing shortages in spas and ensure safety through mandatory background checks for all practitioners.

As the committee deliberated, the urgency of addressing these regulatory gaps became clear. The discussions underscored a collective desire to strengthen Arkansas's massage therapy laws, ensuring they not only protect practitioners but also safeguard the community from the risks associated with human trafficking. The meeting concluded with a sense of anticipation for the proposed changes, which could reshape the landscape of massage therapy in Arkansas and beyond.