Massage Therapy Legislation: Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to know what is going on in the Legislature?

The Oregon legislature determines what information is in massage statutes (laws). The scope of practice, structure of the board, authorities and responsibilities of the board, who is subject to those statutes, and the requirements for licensure are determined by these laws.

When the legislature is in session, there is the possibility that these statutes can be revised. Revisions can affect everything from the number of hours or other requirements for initial licensure, who is subject to those requirements, requirements of the board (which may involve cost that is then passed on to licensees), and the regulatory structure for touch therapies in oregon.

How can I find out what is going on in the legislature?

The most up-to-date information is available on the Oregon legislature's web site.

http://www.leg.state.or.us

You can do a search of bills and laws for the word "massage" to find applicable bills.

Contact Your Representatives

Don't know who your legislators are? Visit the state of Oregon Legislature web site to find your legislators.

Stay Current
Notices of proposed rules changes, hearings, board meetings, and other board events can be found on the OBMT web site.

Proposed Legislation
In the 2011 legislative session, the OBMT is seeking to include Universities in statute as schools that can offer massage therapy programs eligible for approval by the OBMT. Currently students whose credits towards licensure are obtained at an Oregon university cannot use those credits when applying for licensure.

There are a number of groups who are seeking exemption from massage statutes to avoid licensure and regulation in Oregon. The Multiple Discipline Task Force (MDTF) was formed by the OBMT to address the concerns of members of those groups. Some chose to send representatives; others refused. Please visit the OBMT Notices page for information on upcoming MDTF meetings.

OMTA is a 501(c)(6) Non-Profit Corporation. According to the IRS, contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions on the donor's federal income tax return. They may be deductible as trade or business expenses if ordinary and necessary in the conduct of the taxpayer's business. Contact your tax consultant if this affects you. © 2011 Oregon Massage Therapists Association. This web site is maintained by Heather Bennouri, LMT 10079.