Advancing Licensure for Massage Therapists in California

The AMTA California Chapter, national staff, and our lobbyist are working closely with the legislature on sunrise legislation to establish licensure for massage therapists across the state. We’ve provided input and recommendations on the CAMTC sunset review bill, AB 1504 (Committee on Assembly Business and Professions), which is steadily progressing through the legislative process.

AMTA’s Recent Efforts on AB 1504

In recent months, AMTA has taken important steps to help advance AB 1504, including:

• Meeting with staff from the Senate and Assembly Business and Professions committees.
• Engaging with key stakeholders interested in massage therapy licensure.
• Identifying opportunities to shape a licensure framework that reflects California’s unique needs.

AMTA’s Commitment to Licensure

As California moves toward full licensure for massage therapists, AMTA is dedicated to guiding the process in a way that balances the needs of the profession, protects clients, and ensures a fair, smooth transition. We are committed to ensuring that licensure will:

• Create a California-specific licensing board that supports a seamless shift from CAMTC certification.
• Effectively represent the entire massage therapy profession, including schools.
• Honor legacy therapists, including those certified before CAMTC was established in 2008, and help them understand the full benefits of licensure.
• Incorporate best practices from other licensed states.
• Protect clients and strengthen public trust.
• Serve local law enforcement and government agencies effectively.

Learn more about why fair licensing is essential for all massage therapists across the U.S

Defining Scope of Practice and Advancing Negotiations

Working alongside the legislature, AMTA is focused on:

• Defining a clear scope of practice that allows massage therapists to fully apply their education and skills.
• Identifying reasonable compromises during negotiations with other stakeholders in the physical medicine field.

Moving Forward Together

There's still important work ahead — but we’re making meaningful progress! Your input and support remain vital as we continue our listening tour with members, non-members, schools, and other key stakeholders across California.

In the meantime, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach the AMTA Government Relations team.

Thank you to our massage therapy community for all of your efforts, including: attending meetings, sending emails, letters, public testimony, and reaching out to legislators in support of licensure. Your dedication and advocacy are driving real change and helping shape the future of massage therapy in California!