AMTA Advocates for Fair, Practical Rules for Minnesota Massage TherapyRegistration

AMTA recently led the way in securing the passage of optional statewide registration for Minnesota massage therapists, creating an important framework that positions the profession for future statewide licensure when the law takes effect in 2028.

On October 16, 2025, AMTA submitted the following public comments to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) related to the registration and practice of massage therapy and Asian bodywork therapy in the state.

AMTA Public Comments Submitted to the MDH

On behalf of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), we appreciate the opportunity to comment on the implementation of HF 3825 and the optional registration of massage therapists and Asian bodywork therapists. Founded in 1943, AMTA is the nation’s largest nonprofit professional association for massage therapists, students, and schools, with more than 110,000 members. AMTA advances the profession by promoting strong ethical and professional standards, supporting fair and consistent state licensing, and educating the public about the health benefits of massage therapy.

AMTA thanks the Minnesota Department of Health and the rulemaking advisory committee for their commitment to a fair, inclusive, and transparent rulemaking process.

To support clear, practical, and equitable regulations, AMTA respectfully offers the following recommendations:

• Set registration fees at reasonable levels that do not impose an undue financial burden on practitioners.
  
  
• Limit the rules to provisions directly related to professional practice and public protection. Avoid unnecessary or stigmatizing references to adult entertainment, requirements regarding unlocked doors or operating hours, and subjective moral-character standards unless clearly authorized by law and supported by a demonstrated public-safety need.
  
  
• Incorporate clear, evidence-informed standards that define professional responsibilities while allowing practitioners to exercise appropriate professional judgment.
  
  
• Recognize a professional code of ethics, such as AMTA’s Code of Ethics, as a resource for establishing expectations regarding ethical conduct.

Thank you for your thoughtful and diligent work throughout the rulemaking process. AMTA welcomes the opportunity to serve as a resource during the development of the rules.

The Comment Period is an Early Step in Developing the Rules

This comment period is an early step in developing the rules. The department will use the comments it receives now to help shape the proposed rules.

We encourage you to visit the Minnesota Department of Health website for additional information and the latest project updates. If you have any questions, please reach out to the AMTA Government Relations Team.