BILL REQ. #:  H-2044.2 

READ FIRST TIME 02/19/07.   

     AN ACT Relating to the definition of massage therapy; amending RCW 18.108.010; and adding a new section to chapter 18.108 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

Sec. 1   RCW 18.108.010 and 2002 c 277 s 1 are each amended to read as follows:
     In this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires, the following meanings shall apply:
     (1) "Board" means the Washington state board of massage.
     (2) "Massage" and "massage therapy" mean a health care service involving the external manipulation or pressure of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapy includes techniques such as tapping, compressions, friction, Swedish gymnastics or movements, gliding, kneading, shaking, and fascial or connective tissue stretching, with or without the aids of superficial heat, cold, water, lubricants, or salts. Massage therapy does not include diagnosis or attempts to adjust or manipulate any articulations of the body or spine or mobilization of these articulations by the use of a thrusting force, nor does it include genital manipulation.
     (3) "Massage practitioner" means an individual licensed under this chapter.
     (4) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the secretary's designee.
     (5) "Massage business" means the operation of a business where massages are given.
     (6) "Animal massage practitioner" means an individual with a license to practice massage therapy in this state with additional training in animal therapy.
     (7) "Intraoral massage" means the manipulation or pressure of soft tissue inside the mouth or oral cavity for therapeutic purposes.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 18.108 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) A massage practitioner licensed under this chapter may apply for an endorsement to perform intraoral massage upon completion of training determined by the board and specified in rules. Training must include intraoral massage techniques, cranial anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology, hygienic practices, safety and sanitation, pathology, and contraindications.
     (2) A massage practitioner who has obtained an intraoral massage endorsement to his or her massage practitioner license may practice intraoral massage.