Senate backs interstate massage‑therapy compact to ease licensing for military spouses

Senate Bill 233, establishing Montana's participation in a multi‑state massage‑therapy compact, was recommended do pass on second reading after proponents said the compact would increase license portability and help protect public health.

Sponsor Senator Curti told senators the compact follows model language from the Council of State Governments and would allow a therapist licensed in one compact state to practice in another compact state. He said the compact helps communities that host military families: "When airmen and airwomen come to Great Falls, they bring their spouses with them... if we don't have the necessary structure in place, ... it presents a logistical problem for these folks to seek employment." Curti also said the compact increases mobility while preserving Montana's sovereign authority to issue or reject licenses.

During floor questions, senators confirmed that a seven‑state threshold activates the compact’s commission for rulemaking and that congressional approval is not required for this compact's enforcement. Curti said Montana would be "one of the top seven" states and that the compact's enforcement mechanism includes state sovereignty over licensing.

Supporters emphasized public‑safety benefits, including enhanced vetting and an ability to address illicit operations that can facilitate human trafficking. "Human traffickers use basically one means of pushing human trafficking. And that is massage therapy," Curti said in floor remarks explaining the public‑safety rationale.

The Senate recorded 43 senators voting aye and 7 voting nay on the motion recommending SB 233 do pass on second reading. The bill will proceed to further legislative consideration.