Support H.588 to Establish Vermont Licensure for Massage Practitioners and Businesses

April 7, 2026

The AMTA Vermont Chapter is advocating for the licensure of massage therapists and massage therapy establishments—and we need your help.

House Bill 588 (H.588) has been introduced in Vermont. We urge you to support an amendment to the bill that includes statewide licensure for both massage therapy practitioners and establishments, strengthening public protection and professional standards.
 

Why Licensure Matters in Vermont

  • Vermont is behind national standards: 45 states, along with Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, require licensure to ensure consistent education and safety.

  • Licensure protects the public and the profession: It aligns Vermont with national standards and supports safe, effective care.

  • Massage therapy is health care: As an integrative approach to pain management, massage requires consistent education, training, and competence.

Current Gaps in Vermont

  • Vermont requires registration, not licensure.

  • Practitioners pay fees similar to licensed professions without the assurance of professional standards or public protection.

  • Registration alone does not effectively distinguish legitimate providers from illicit businesses.

Massage Licensure Elevates the Profession

By establishing clear, enforceable standards and ensuring practitioners are qualified and well-trained, licensure will strengthen consumer protection, elevate the profession, and expand access to safe, trusted massage therapy.

Amending H.588 to include licensure is a critical step toward aligning Vermont with national best practices and supporting the health and well-being of its residents.

Let’s Take Action Together!

Please send a letter of support urging the Senate Government Operations Committee to amend H.588 to include licensure for massage therapists and massage therapy establishments. It only takes a few minutes!

Contact Your Legislators Today