Support HB 81 and SB 55: Safeguard Licensed Massage Therapy in Ohio

The American Massage Therapy Association – Ohio Chapter is advocating for the passage of HB 81 and SB 55, two critical bills that will help protect the integrity of massage therapy in Ohio. These bills are designed to close a loophole that allows unlicensed individuals to perform massage without proper training, oversight, or accountability.

What Do HB 81 and SB 55 Do?

Currently, Ohio law does not prohibit individuals from providing massage services as long as they don’t call it "massage therapy" or advertise it as "medical" or "therapeutic massage." This loophole puts both clients and Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) at risk.

HB 81 and SB 55 will close this loophole, ensuring that only licensed professionals can perform massage, safeguarding the industry and those who rely on it for legitimate healthcare and wellness services.

Why Does Ohio Need This Legislation?

Ohio has long recognized massage therapists as valuable contributors to the healthcare system. However, without closing this loophole, unlicensed massage:

✔️ Puts clients at risk – Untrained techniques can lead to injury.✔️ Jeopardizes LMTs’ safety – Bad actors can exploit the current law.✔️ Allows illicit businesses to operate – Some unlicensed massage providers use the practice as a front for human trafficking and prostitution.

By supporting these bills, we protect the credibility of our profession and the safety of both therapists and clients.

Addressing Common Concerns

1. Do These Bills Increase Fees for LMTs?

No. The $250 filing fee and $125 renewal fee mentioned in the bills already exist under current law and would still require a township's legislative action to enforce.

2. What Do These Bills Change for Local Governments?

Local governments retain their ability to regulate massage businesses, including zoning, setting business hours, and establishing necessary laws. However, any massage services must be provided by an LMT.

3. Will These Bills Only Benefit Large Massage Chains?

No. HB 81 and SB 55 apply equally to all licensed massage therapists, regardless of where they practice. There is no additional oversight from the State of Ohio—only stronger enforcement against unlicensed massage providers.

Why Should LMTs Support These Bills?

Licensed Massage Therapists are trained professionals in a healthcare-related field. HB 81 and SB 55 ensure that massage therapy remains a legitimate, respected profession.

By supporting these bills, LMTs help:

✅ Protect public safety by ensuring only trained professionals provide massage.

✅ Prevent unlicensed individuals from harming clients or misrepresenting the profession.

✅ Take a stand against human trafficking and illegal businesses.

Take Action Today!

The time to act is now! Your voice matters. Contact your local legislators and urge them to support HB 81 and SB 55.

📢 Call, email, or write to your representatives today. Let’s work together to protect massage therapy in Ohio!