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Committee backs Adam Broxton for massage and bodywork advisory panel amid licensing questions
Summary
The committee gave a favorable report to Adam Broxton for reappointment to the advisory panel for massage and bodywork. Members discussed the rationale for licensure, public safety risks, possible tiered licensure and concerns about unlicensed establishments and human trafficking.
Adam Broxton, a massage therapist and educator with roughly 19 years' experience, was reported favorably by the Labor, Commerce and Industry committee for an initial appointment and reappointment to the advisory panel for massage and bodywork.
Broxton described roles as practitioner, educator and operations manager and said he has experience handling education verification and inappropriate‑conduct complaints. He told senators he represents a demographic not currently on the advisory panel and said he stepped forward to help address problems in the field.
Senators used the Broxton screening to probe why massage is licensed in Southland. The senator from York asked the specific harms an unlicensed practitioner could cause; Broxton cited health risks to clients with cancer, lymphedema, or herniated discs and said that licensed practitioners receive training on necessary modifications. He said groups in the industry have proposed differentiated licensing (for example, an advanced practitioner license) and that he is open to such approaches if they promote the profession's integration with health care.
Committee members also asked about illegal activity and trafficking tied to unlicensed establishments. Broxton and later staff said unlicensed operations have prompted cease‑and‑desist letters and that closed‑door massage could be exploited for illegal activity. The chair confirmed that providing massage for compensation without a license is illegal in Southland.
Staff reviewed Broxton's paperwork, and senators moved and seconded a favorable report; the committee approved the nomination by voice vote.
Votes at a glance: Favorable recommendation for Adam Broxton (motion moved by senator Oconee; seconded by senator from Greenville; outcome: approved by voice vote).
