Arizona

ABMP submitted written commentary to the Arizona legislature regarding House BIll 2169, which would merge the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy with the Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board. We are opposed to this legislation and invite you to read our comments and write to your elected officials.

The Arizona legislature adopted House Bill 2012, which eliminates the requirement for the State Board of Massage Therapy to establish communication proficiency requirements for applicants applying for a massage therapy license.

Governor Ducey signed into law House Bill 2438, which requires massage therapists to undergo a more thorough criminal background check before receiving a license. This new requirement will affect applications and license renewals after January 1, 2023.

There is currently one seat open to a licensed massage therapist on the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy, and Governor Ducey’s office is looking for qualified applicants. ABMP encourages interested and eligible members to consider applying for an appointment, as it’s a way to become more engaged in the profession. Find out how!

House Bill 2569 modifies existing Arizona law to allow out of state applicants, residents, and military spouses holding valid professional licensure from another state to apply for professional licensure by the appropriate Arizona licensing entity.

As previously reported, the entry-level education required to qualify for an Arizona massage therapy license has increased to 700 hours. Completion of a minimum of twenty-five (25) hours of continuing education is required for renewal of your license. Twelve (12) hours may be obtained through distance learning. For more information, go to:

http://www.massageboard.az.gov/UserFiles/CE's%20Requirements(4).pdf

Fee change
Effective October 1, 2007, the fee for the fingerprinting that is required for background checks, will change to $24. The total application fee will change to $189.00.
Education hour increase
Effective January 1, 2008, in order to qualify for an Arizona massage therapy license an applicant will be required to complete an approved massage program of 700 hours. Previously, completion of a 500 hour program was sufficient.

The Arizona Board of Massage Therapy met on Monday, February 27, 2006 to accept public comment on their intention to raise the educational requirements for state licensing and decrease the licensing fees.