News

On May 27, SB 676, an existing bill, was successfully amended to include a one-year extension for the Cosmetology and Barbering Board in Oklahoma. This timely intervention represents a critical victory in safeguarding the massage therapy profession in the state. (5/30/25)
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As a massage therapist, staying informed about emerging therapies can help you better support your clients. Explore what halotherapy is, its benefits, and how it can be integrated into your practice. (5/30/25)
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Governor Stitt recently vetoed HB 1030—a pivotal piece of legislation that would have extended the sunset date for the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Learn how this decision could carry consequences for the massage therapy profession across the state. (5/22/25)
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The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork has released its FY24/25 Job Task Analysis Report (JTA Report), offering an in-depth look at today’s massage therapists and serving as a valuable guide for those considering a career in massage therapy. (5/20/25)
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Check out AMTA's new, free MBLEx Study Video series designed to take the stress out of exam preparation and help students approach this critical step with confidence. (5/20/25)
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AMTA is dedicated to empowering massage therapists with the knowledge and tools to support the well-being of their clients. By raising skin cancer awareness, recognizing early warning signs, and promoting smart sun safety habits, you can make a meaningful difference this summer and beyond. (5/16/25)
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and AMTA is spotlighting new research that underscores the benefits of massage therapy for anxiety and depression. These recent studies strengthen the case for integrating massage therapy as an evidence-based, complementary approach to mental health care. (5/14/25)
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Learn more about the Massage Therapy Foundation's Executive Director, Teri Mayo, her 30+ years in the massage therapy profession, and the vision she has for the future of the foundation. (5/14/25)
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The AMTA California Chapter, national staff, and our lobbyist are working closely to advance sunrise legislation to establish licensure for massage therapists across the state. Explore our recommendations for the CAMTC sunset review bill, AB 1504, as we continue to advocate for California massage therapists. (5/8/25)
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AMTA is excited to announce that we have received a 2025 Gold Hermes Creative Award and a Communicator Award of Distinction for our Massage Therapy for Veterans Advocacy Campaign! Winning these awards underscores the powerful impact of AMTA’s advocacy and our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all veterans have access to high-quality, integrative care. (5/7/25)
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Learn why fair licensing is essential for massage therapists in every state across the U.S. and how it differs from certification and registration. Also, explore the important work AMTA is doing to support the establishment of licensure across the country. (5/1/2025)
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AMTA has been a key voice in national discussions on the IMpact, which aims to expand professional mobility for massage therapists. While five states have enacted the legislation, challenges and eligibility barriers persist in many other states across the country. AMTA remains committed to a more inclusive solution. (4/29/25)
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AMTA is excited to introduce our new video study series, designed to be engaging, easy-to-digest support for students preparing for the MBLEx. Sign up to be the first to know when the video series goes live! (4/25/25)
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Every spring, AMTA State Chapters host an annual Conference, bringing massage therapy professionals and students together to build community and advance the profession. Massage Envy was proud to support Virginia's event, aimed at empowering the next generation of massage therapists. (4/24/25)
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As of April 10, the House narrowly approved the Senate-amended budget resolution, paving the way for Congress to begin work on a major “Budget Reconciliation” bill. Learn more about the potential impact on the massage therapy community. (4/21/25)
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With 73% of massage therapists identifying as sole practitioners, building a financial wellness plan is an essential part of your business. Explore strategies that can help you plan for a secure financial future. (4/23/25)
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AMTA’s Government Relations Team works tirelessly year-round to advocate for massage therapists across the country. Check out this recap video to see some of the team’s most impactful accomplishments from this past year. (4/17/25)
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Expand your skillset with AMTA's top-rated online CE courses that explore the ways massage therapy can be part of the solution for pain relief. (4/11/25)
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IMTRC brings together massage and manual therapy professionals, researchers, and thought leaders from around the world to explore the latest research shaping the profession. It serves as a dynamic hub for learning and collaboration, offering attendees not only insights into cutting-edge research but also opportunities to get involved. (4/10/25)
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On March 24, two California committees held a sunset hearing regarding the future of the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). AMTA testified against CAMTC at this hearing and continues to advocate for statewide licensure in California. (4/8/25)
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Earth Day, observed annually on April 22, offers a chance to raise awareness and promote environmental protection. As Earth Day approaches, AMTA is excited to share ten simple strategies that massage therapists can incorporate into their practices to contribute to a more sustainable world. (4/3/25)
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This spring, Massage Envy will fund five $10,000 grants to support massage schools in attracting, training, and graduating highly qualified therapists. Submit your application by April 30 to be considered for a grant for your school. (4/1/25)
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In celebration of Women's History Month, AMTA is spotlighting five CE courses authored by leading female educators in the profession. From lymphatic drainage to reflexology, these popular courses provide valuable insights to elevate your practice and meet the evolving needs of your clients. (3/20/25)
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AMTA is committed to promoting work environments that respect and uphold the professional boundaries of massage therapists. Learn more about how AMTA addresses client misconduct in the recent New York Sun article: Massage Therapists Calling for Legal Action Against Clients - Including Famous Athletes - Who Behave Inappropriately. (3/19/25)
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Vermont recently introduced House Bill 472 (H 472) which addresses professional regulation and the fees associated with the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR). AMTA has been advocating for two key changes to the bill, including licensing and reducing excessive fees for massage therapists. (3/14/25)
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The International Massage Therapy Research Conference (IMTRC), hosted by the Massage Therapy Foundation (MTF), will take place in Alexandria, VA from April 27-29. This conference is an amazing opportunity to earn up to 16 CE credits while learning about new research, connecting with colleagues, and gaining insight into research-informed practices. (3/14/25)
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Join us for the AMTA 2025 National Convention in Dallas, TX this August 21-23! Convention is an amazing opportunity to learn new techniques, hear from inspiring speakers, earn a year's worth of CE credits, and discover the latest massage products. Registration is now open! (3/12/25)
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Meet the evolving needs of your clients with AMTA’s newest CE courses—designed to keep you ahead of the trends in the profession. (3/11/25)
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AMTA is closely monitoring key developments in Washington, D.C., including leadership changes, new appointments, and executive actions that may impact the massage therapy community. We will continue to keep you informed of any new important updates. (3/10/25)
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Congratulations to the AMTA 2025-26 Board of Directors who were sworn into office on March 8. The National Board of Directors sets the course for the association and its commitment to advancing the profession. We look forward to a great year ahead! (3/8/25)
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AMTA is committed to defending the 150% rule, a provision that enables massage therapy students to access the full range of federal financial aid. Here’s the latest update on this critical case. (3/7/25)
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Minnesota Senate File 1131 (SF 1131) and House File 362 (HF 362) have recently been introduced marking a significant step toward mandatory licensing. AMTA is dedicated to promoting professional standards and advocating for fair licensing across all states. Take action to support these crucial legislative efforts. (3/6/25)
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Thanks to the advocacy efforts of the AMTA-UT chapter, Utah massage therapists, and our lobbyist, Utah House Bill 278 sponsors have removed problematic sections and made vital revisions to the bill. The newly-amended HB 278 is set to move forward to the Governor's desk for final passage. (3/5/25)
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At AMTA, we are committed to uplifting and supporting our massage therapy community. In honor of Black History Month, we had the privilege of speaking with Davonna Willis, MA, ATC, LMT, founder of 4 Nineteen Education & Training and the Black Massage Therapists Conference. Learn more about Davonna and her vision for the future of the profession. (2/27/25)
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In Utah, House Bill 278 (HB 278) will be heard in the Senate Committee on Business and Labor tomorrow morning (Feb. 28) at 8:00 am. HB 278 (Sub 1) proposes an amendment to the Massage Therapy Practice Act, creating a new pathway for individuals without proof of massage education or other qualifications to become a "Registered Massage Therapist." We need your voice to protect the profession! (2/27/25)
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In 2024, Aescape, an AI-powered massage table, debuted, sparking a mixture of feelings among massage therapists and businesses alike. AMTA is continuing the conversation with massage therapists, as well as company leaders involved in the innovation, to better understand AI and its role in the profession. (2/24/25)
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Beneficial ownership reporting requirements are back in effect with a new deadline of March 21, 2025 for most companies. Learn about the new requirements, necessary actions, and helpful resources for massage therapists. (Updated: 2/24/25)
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The Massage School Grants are announced by AMTA and funded by Massage Envy to support the future of the massage therapy profession. A Spring 2024 recipient, Parker University, shared the positive ways this grant has impacted their school community. (2/18/25)
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AMTA is aware of the ongoing discussions surrounding the Interstate Massage Compact (IMpact) and would like to clearly state our position on this legislation. (2/14/25)
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Kansas Senate Bill 253 was introduced February 7, 2025, for the implementation of statewide licensure for massage therapists. Support for massage therapy licensure remains strong in the Kansas legislature, and AMTA is optimistic about a positive outcome in the coming year. (2/12/25)
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The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards announced the launch of its new Exam Service Center, featuring a range of technological upgrades designed to improve user experience. To facilitate the migration, a temporary technology blackout will begin on March 1, 2025 and is expected to last up to two weeks. (2/12/25)
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AMTA is thrilled to announce that the Massage Therapy Journal’s fall issue received an Honorable Mention at the 2024 MarCom Awards! Explore the featured articles in the fall issue, Committing to Compassionate Inclusion. (2/6/25)
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On January 30, Arkansas legislature introduced Senate Bill 168 that proposes the creation of a state-specific examination for massage therapy licensure, to be administered by the Department of Health. (2/4/25)
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Massage therapy is known to improve health and well-being during all stages of life. Explore what massage therapists should know about practicing massage within a palliative care setting. (1/31/25)
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As part of a renewed commitment to research, AMTA and MTF are pleased to announce that AMTA will designate $2.5 million over the next five years to directly fund research activities that will benefit the massage therapy profession. (1/28/25)
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Discover more key insights from this year’s Consumer Views Survey, and get a deeper understanding of how consumers perceive and use massage therapy. This week, we’ll explore how individuals view massage therapy and health care. (1/21/25)
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AMTA is thrilled to honor LaDonna Ward as a 2025 recipient of the President’s Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals for their outstanding and altruistic contributions to the massage therapy profession. (1/16/25)
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AMTA is deeply saddened by the loss of Erik Dalton, PhD whose lifelong work left an indelible mark on the massage profession. Erik, who passed away on Saturday, January 11, was the founder of the Freedom from Pain Institute and the creator of Dalton Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques. (1/13/25)
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We invite you to share your expertise with our massage therapy community! Submit an application by March 28 to be considered to speak at the 2026 Schools Summit, 2026 National Convention or to author an online course for the AMTA portfolio. (1/7/25)
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Expand your expertise with the most popular AMTA continuing education courses from 2024. (12/20/24)
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Each year, AMTA conducts a survey that dives into the perspectives of massage therapy consumers. Take a look at some of the latest big-picture trends in consumer attitudes. (12/19/24)
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Industry experts share their insights on the potential benefits of using CBD with massage therapy —and what to consider before incorporating it into your practice. (12/16/24)
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The AMTA is pleased to announce that 91.6% of professional members voting in the AMTA National Board of Election approved the slate of new board directors to take office on March 1, 2025. (12/04/24)
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Thank you to our massage therapy community for another incredible year! To help you navigate the calm and chaos of the holiday season, we’ve created a quick guide filled with free tools and resources. (12/3/24)
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Deepen your undersanding of Medicare Advantage (MA) with our free webinar, which explores how therapeutic massage is covered under MA plans and provides guidance on researching available plans in your area. (12/3/24)
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AMTA is excited to share that we have become a stakeholder member of the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) Coalition for Whole Person Health. (11/25/24)
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In celebration of National Career Development Month, AMTA is excited to share strategies and tools to support the career growth of massage therapists. Throughout November, explore our extensive resources to enhance your career and make meaningful strides in your journey as a massage therapist. (11/14/24)
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AMTA's strategic plan, shaped by dedicated volunteers, our Board of Directors, and leadership, outlines the association's key priorities and goals for the future. Explore our plan to see how your support translates into tangible benefits and resources for your practice. (11/7/24)
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In October, the Louisiana State legislature introduced HB9, a proposal that could change laws to tax certain services and may affect the massage therapy profession. (11/5/24)
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AMTA serves as the leading sponsor of the Pain Collaborative’s inaugural hybrid meeting, uniting experts to advance a biopsychosocial approach to whole-person pain care. (11/1/24)
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Discover a recent wave of research highlighting the benefits of massage therapy throughout pregnancy and labor. (10/25/24)
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In October, the 2nd Annual Black Massage Therapist Conference (BMTC) was held in Charlotte, North Carolina. AMTA proudly supported the event as the gold sponsor, reinforcing our commitment to fostering networking, education, and growth for Black massage therapists. (10/22/24)
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Join us on social this week, as we celebrate and highlight the benefits of massage therapy for specific health conditions during AMTA's National Massage Therapy Awareness Week^® (NMTAW)! (10/21/24)
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AMTA stands ready to assist the VA with resources to help develop comprehensive national standards for massage therapy practice within the veterans' healthcare system. (10/16/24)
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AMTA will be hosting a valuable educational webinar designed to deepen massage therapists’ understanding of Medicare Advantage (MA) and its growing role within the broader Medicare system. We've had an overwhelming response to this webinar, and registration is now full. It will be recorded and made available on-demand after the event.  (10/1/24)
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The AMTA Government Relations team recently attended a landmark celebration recognizing the enrollment of 1 million veterans in the Million Veteran Program (MVP), a research initiative launched by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in 2011. (10/1/24)
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AMTA celebrates the accomplishments of individuals whose dedication, enthusiasm and leadership have earned high recognition by bestowing a series of national awards. Congratulations to the 2024 national awards recipients for their outstanding service! (9/30/24)
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AMTA had the privilege to be the gold sponsor and active participant in Healwell's Homecoming Conference on September 20-21 in Arlington, VA. The event brought together leaders in the profession to discuss challenges and explore new growth opportunities for massage therapists. (9/25/24)
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In our recent Massage Therapy Journal article, explore the greater need for education and awareness around neurodiversity across most every health care profession, including massage therapy. Plus, get five quick tips for making your practice welcoming for neurodiverse clients. (9/18/24)
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AMTA supports greater mobility through an interstate compact and has been deeply involved in discussions to address barriers and restrictions within the current IMpact. Recently, AMTA and FSMTB met to discuss these concerns, leading to clarifications and specific intentions outlined in a joint letter. (9/6/2024)
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On July 9, Assembly Bill 4587 was enacted into law, increasing the minimum education hours for entry-level massage therapists in New Jersey from 500 to 600 hours. (8/16/24)
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Congratulations to Tammy Roecker, President of the Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness, on receiving the prestigious AMTA Dianne Polseno Lifetime Achievement Award! This honor recognizes her outstanding professionalism, integrity, and leadership in massage therapy education. (8/13/24)
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The Department of Education (DoEd) proposed new regulations, including a rule that prohibits asynchronous distance learning in clock-hour programs participating in Title IV financial aid. We encourage anyone who could be impacted to submit public comments by August 23, 2024. (8/12/24)
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MPower Career Training announced its official school and program closure on July 19, 2024. AMTA is extending our support by providing students with some valuable resources during this challenging time. (7/26/24)
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Building client loyalty and encouraging clients to rebook are crucial for massage therapists to sustain and grow their practice. Read on for five tips for getting your clients back in your practice. (7/25/24)
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Elevate your massage therapy career with AMTA’s introductory CE courses! Discover which specialization aligns best with your professional goals by exploring our popular starter courses. (7/16/24)
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The Missouri Board of Therapeutic Massage passed an emergency rule to increase the entry-level education requirement for massage therapists from 500 to 625 hours. (7/11/24)
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North Carolina recently passed SB 607 which increases the minimum education requirements for entry-level massage therapists in North Carolina from 500 to 650 hours. (7/11/24)
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The Department of Education’s new rule has been delayed due to successful lawsuits just like ours! This delay means that massage therapy schools can continue to operate under the 150% rule until further notice. (7/3/24)
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Delaware has passed SB 277, a bill to phase out Certified Massage Technicians (CMTs) to establish a single tier of licensure, aligning with standards followed by nearly all other states. (7/3/24) 
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The Florida Legislature has passed HB 197, a comprehensive bill aimed at enhancing oversight to eliminate illicit activities operating under the guise of massage therapy. This bill goes into effect on July 1, 2024. (6/26/24)
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Senate Bill 353, which will increase entry-level education hours from 500 to 625 hours in Louisiana, has been enrolled and is awaiting Governor Landry's signature. (6/18/24)
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Governor Polis recently signed Senate Bill 24-201 into law, which increases minimum education hours from 500 to 650 hours in Colorado for entry-level massage therapists. (6/18/24)
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We are proud to share that the Friends of VA Medical Care and Health Research (FOVA) Budget Proposal for FY 2025 spotlights how AMTA continues to support new research on the benefits of massage therapy for military and veteran populations. (6/12/24)
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AMTA has taken action and filed a federal lawsuit challenging a new Department of Education (DoEd) rule eliminating the longstanding “150% rule” for federal financial aid for massage therapy students and schools. We are committed to fighting for massage therapy schools, students and the entire profession! (6/10/24)
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Explore the latest studies in our research roundup on how massage therapy can help improve the quality of life for infants, middle-aged individuals, and older adults. (6/6/24)
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We are proud to share that AMTA has been recognized by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) with a 2024 Gold Circle Award for our Advocacy Campaign: Advancing the Integration of Massage Therapy in Healthcare. (6/6/24)
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Ohio has officially passed Senate Bill 56, the Interstate Massage Compact (IMpact). The bill, introduced on February 14, 2023, passed the Senate on September 13, 2023, and the House on May 22, 2024. (5/24/24)
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The passage of Senate Bill 137 will dissolve the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy on June 1, 2024, transferring its powers and duties to the newly established Alabama Massage Therapy Licensing Board, which will temporarily be overseen by the Board of Nursing. (5/21/24)
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Discover how massage therapists can best use AI to help improve client outcomes, streamline business tasks and reimagine marketing efforts. (5/17/24)
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Broaden your knowledge by exploring these featured hands-on CE sessions at the AMTA 2024 National Convention in Tampa, FL this September! (5/10/24)
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The Tennessee Governor recently signed a law which increases the minimum massage education hours from 500 to 650 hours. This law is in direct response to recent changes to the U.S. Department of Education regulations and will allow schools to continue to offer all of the financial support to massage students. (5/9/24)
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AMTA recently attended the Annual Coalition Meeting on Voices for Non-Opioid Choices in Washington D.C. Learn how AMTA partners with this group to help increase patient and provider access to non-opioid therapies. (5/8/24)
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AMTA continues to seek out opportunities to support research and elevate standards for the massage therapy profession. Learn more about how funding is allocated for federal research and how the findings can help drive future policy decisions. (5/7/24)
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On April 23, Senate Bill 277 was introduced to amend the current Delaware Massage Therapy Practice and cease issuing new CMT licenses after December 31, 2024. The passage of this bill will ensure that future massage therapy practitioners obtain 500 hours of education. (5/2/24)
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For massage therapists who are small business owners looking to negotiate or renegotiate their lease now or in the near future, they may be in for a big surprise. Here are 6 tips to help massage therapists get the best rate on a new lease. (5/1/24)
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Learn more about AMTA's recent efforts to aid Title IV schools in Georgia through supporting legislation that would have raised educational hours as a solution to new rules imposed by the U.S. Department of Education.
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Learn more about Rep. Lloyd Smucker's bill H.R. 7810 and why it's important to reach out to your U.S. House Rep today to help safeguard the future of massage therapy students! 
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Learn about assisted stretch and if this technique could benefit your clients as part of your massage therapy practice.
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AMTA has heard from many massage therapists who contract with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through the Community Care Network (CCN), regarding recent cuts to reimbursement rates. Here is an update on why massage therapy fee schedules may fluctuate.
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Do you still need to complete your taxes? Check out our tax tips for massage therapists! The deadline for most taxpayers to file federal and state income taxes is April 15th.
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Thanks to the grassroots efforts of the AMTA-AK Chapter and volunteers, Executive Order 127 was overturned during a joint session, allowing the Alaska Board of Massage Therapy to continue in the state.
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Explore the latest research on how massage therapy can help improve sleep for various populations including pregnant women, infants and women going through menopause.
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AMTA is pleased to share that HB 2169, a bill to merge the Board of Massage Therapy with the Board of Cosmetology, will not move forward this year in Arizona.
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AMTA is keeping a pulse on how AI continues to impact the massage profession. Learn about a newly-launched AI-powered massage table that uses advanced AI technology for a personalized experience.
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Congratulations to the AMTA 2024-25 Board of Directors who were sworn into office on March 8th.
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As consumer prices continue to rise, small businesses are feeling the financial strain. Explore four tips to help massage therapists navigate rising costs while taking the pressure off of their finances.
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Discover how to integrate cupping techniques into your massage therapy practice with our Cupping CE series, featuring our advanced CE: Cupping with Movement. 
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New research continues to support evidence that massage therapy benefits the health and well-being of our U.S. veterans. Find out more about the Veteran Administration's latest evidence map of massage therapy.
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Minnesota is one of four states that remain unlicensed and establishing statewide licensure continues to be a priority for AMTA. Learn why massage therapy regulation in Minnesota is so important.
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Recently, the U.S. Department of Education released its final ruling that is set to go into effect on July 2024, if not amended or postponed. This will eliminate the 150% rule, which could impact federal funding for massage therapy schools.
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Military veterans often face a host of health concerns upon returning from service, including chronic pain and PTSD. Take a look at recent research that explores how massage therapy supports the health and well-being of our U.S. veterans.
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Explore our cancer CE series and discover the crucial role massage therapists can play as part of a client’s oncology care team.
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From pain management to relieving lymphedema, explore recent research that supports the benefits of massage therapy for cancer patients.
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With an active legislative season coming to a close, explore how AMTA was involved in advocating for state licensure, massage therapy for pain management, the Interstate Compact and fighting the reduction of standards in the profession.
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Our AMTA community is now 100,000 members strong! We have reached this historic milestone because of our members, and we thank you for being a part of the AMTA family.
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Explore recent research that supports the benefits of massage therapy for stress, anxiety and depression.
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AMTA is pleased that the omnibus bill includes many provisions that support integrative healthcare including massage therapy.
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Recent studies demonstrate the efficacy of massage therapy for relief of chronic pain and show its value in reducing the need for opioids.
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With AMTA input, the NAICS 2022 update includes changing the term "massage parlors" to "massage wellness centers."
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AMTA is pleased to announce that Massage Envy will be purchasing AMTA memberships, on behalf of massage therapists employed across the country at their franchised locations.
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AMTA provides comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) about Medicare's Inclusion of Massage in 2022.
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Learn how the HHS FY 2022 bill and draft report supports education, public awareness, and research on massage therapy for pain management.
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AMTA Advocacy: Moving Massage Forward

AMTA’s advocacy efforts are continuing to move the massage therapy profession forward. We are working to increase public and policymaker awareness of the efficacy of massage therapy. 
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Discover how massage therapy can help support clients during all phases of pregnancy.
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