Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Health Care Committee

SB 6698

Brief Description:  Exempting reflexologists from regulation as massage practitioners.

Sponsors:  Senators Thibaudeau and Deccio.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Reflexologists limiting their practice to the hands, feet and ears are exempted from the requirements of licensing under the state Massage Practice Act.

Hearing Date:  2/25/02

Staff:  John Welsh (786‑7133).

Background:

Reflexology involves the  application of various pressure techniques at specified points on the hands, feet, and ears which reflect corresponding areas of the body.

The practice of massage includes reflexology.

Summary of Bill:

An exemption to the Massage Practice Act is provided for persons limiting their practice to reflexology which is limited to the hands, feet, and outer ears.

Additionally, the spelling of the term "facial" is corrected to "fascial."

The Department of Health must review implementation of this act and make recommendations to the Legislature by December 1, 2005.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not Requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.