Until now, massage therapists in Maryland have been regulated by the Board of Chiropractic and Massage Therapy, which also regulates chiropractors. New legislation was enacted on May 28, 2016 separating the regulation of the two professions by creating a new Board of Massage Therapy Examiners, which will regulate only massage therapists, and a separate Board of Chiropractic Examiners, which will regulate only chiropractors. As we discussed in our most recent Maryland web update, ABMP supported this change, since it will allow the Board to better address the particular issues specific to the field of massage therapy.
The state is now accepting applications for seats on the new Board of Massage Therapy Examiners, through July 18. This is a great opportunity to contribute to the development and vitality of our profession! The Board will be composed of seven members, five of whom will be licensed massage therapists and two of whom will be consumer members. This is an unpaid, volunteer position, with a $150 stipend for each meeting plus travel expenses. The Board meets once per month in Baltimore. Please click here for further details about Board member terms and duties.
In order to qualify for a massage therapist Board seat, you must be:
- A resident of the state of Maryland ;
- A licensed massage therapist of integrity and ability who is in active practice;
- A graduate of a Board-approved course in massage therapy;
- An individual who has practiced massage therapy in Maryland for at least 5 consecutive years; and
- In good standing with the Board.
If you are interested in applying for a Board seat, please:
- Contact ABMP Government Relations Coordinator Nancy Potter at nancy@abmp.com, no later than July 12, 2016, indicating your interest and attaching a recent resume, so that we may nominate you for a position; then
- Submit an online application to the Governor's Appointments Office (GAO) no later than July 18, 2016. Click here to apply online. You will be required to upload a resume with your application. If you have any issues with the online application process, please contact the state at 410-974-2611.
Any questions may be addressed to Kim Bennardi at kim.bennardi@maryland.gov or phone: 410-767-4049.