Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 1082

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning the licensure and certification of massage therapists and reflexologists.

Sponsors: Representatives Kraft, Wylie, Harris, Cody, Vick and Hoff.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires massage therapists and reflexologists to have government-issued photo identification on their person when providing services beginning January 1, 2020.

Hearing Date: 1/25/19

Staff: Alyssa Patrick (786-7296) and Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Massage Therapy Licenses.

Massage therapy is a health care service involving the external manipulation or pressure of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapists are required to become licensed. The Secretary of Health (Secretary) issues the license to applicants who are at least age 18 or older and provide proof of:

Reflexology Certifications.

Reflexology is a health care service in which a practitioner applies alternate pressure with thumb and finger techniques to reflexive areas of the lower one-third of extremities, feet, hands, and outer ears based on reflex maps. Reflexologists are required to be certified. Certificates are issued by the Secretary to applicants who are at least age 18 or older and provide proof of:

Display of Licenses and Certifications.

Both massage therapists and reflexologists must have their respective licenses or certificates on display at their places of business or wherever they practice.

Summary of Bill:

Beginning January 1, 2020, massage therapists and reflexologists must have a government-issued photo identification on his or her person at all times when practicing massage therapy or reflexology. The photo identification must have the same name as the massage therapy license or reflexology certification.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested January 18, 2019

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.