HB1224
To Amend The Automatic Occupational Licensure For Out-of-state Licensure Act; And To Apply The Automatic Occupational Licensure For Out-of-state Licensure Act To Massage Therapists.
Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1224 amends the existing Automatic Occupational Licensure for Out-of-State Licensure Act in Arkansas. The primary purpose of the bill is to explicitly include massage therapists within the scope of the Act. By doing so, it allows massage therapists who hold a valid license in another state to obtain a license to practice in Arkansas under an expedited process. Currently, the Act provides certain exemptions for medical professions, but this bill creates a specific exception for massage therapists to ensure they are eligible for the automatic licensure provisions. The bill facilitates professional mobility for massage therapists moving to or working in Arkansas.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries are massage therapists licensed in other states who wish to relocate or practice in Arkansas, as they will face fewer regulatory hurdles to obtain licensure. Additionally, Arkansas businesses and consumers may benefit from an increased pool of available massage therapy professionals.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entity negatively impacted is the Arkansas State Board of Massage Therapy, which may face increased administrative responsibilities to verify out-of-state credentials under the expedited process. Additionally, some existing Arkansas-based massage therapists might perceive increased competition as a potential negative impact.
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