&nbsp;I am a licensed massage therapist in ​ your district, writing to respectfully request your support for HB 579 - Interstate Massage Compact; education and examination requirements.&nbsp;
HB 579 introduces revisions to the Interstate Massage Therapist Compact that was introduced by Delegate Glass and passed by an overwhelming margin during the 2025 legislative session. The updated version establishes clearer, more inclusive eligibility pathways directly in statute. These revisions reflect a practical and inclusive approach to multistate licensure while continuing to uphold strong public protection standards. All multistate license holders must still meet high educational standards and pass a national licensing examination to be eligible.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Importantly, HB 579 allows massage therapists who passed the NCBTMB exam prior to January 1, 2015, to become eligible for a multistate license. It also offers an additional pathway for experienced professionals by allowing therapists with fewer than 625 clock-hours of massage education to qualify if they have held a license in good standing for a minimum of two years. These amendments recognize experience, maintain competency standards, and strengthen professional mobility without compromising public safety.&nbsp;
I thank Delegate Glass for her leadership on this Compact and urge you to support HB 579. This revision supports military families, enhances professional portability, and preserves strong public protection standards, while enhancing public trust and confidence in the massage therapy profession.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Support HB 579 – Massage Therapy Compact Amendments