FSMTA maintains a strong presence in Tallahassee, Florida to protect the rights of massage therapists in Florida. We promote and initiate legislative platforms to improve the status of massage, our right to practice, and our right to be part of the Health Care Delivery System. We have lobbyists and a legislative committee, lead by the Director of Legislative Affairs who work on YOUR behalf to ensure the legislature is aware of the concerns of the therapist.
Some of our legislative achievements are:
- In 2021, Florida Statute Chapter 480 was updated changing the Massage Practice Act to the Massage Therapy Practice Act. Additionally, “massage therapy assessment” and use of the knee were included.
- Massage Therapy was included as a pain management option within The Nonopioid Alternative Act which requires physicians to educate patients of available nonopioid alternatives before prescribing opiates.
- Legal designation changed from Masseur/Masseuse to Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT).
- Revising the Insurance Law enabled LMTs to bill health insurance for Rx services (a national precedent).
- The continued exemption from Florida sales tax for all massage therapy services.
- The change of terminology in the definition of massage from manipulation of superficial tissue to SOFT TISSUE.
- Acquiring exemption from the 1988 Dietetics Act enabled LMTs to continue providing nutritional products.
- The retention of massage therapy license law during F.S. 480 Sunset Reviews.
- Annual Legislative Awareness Day provides face time with lawmakers.
- The establishment of a successful grassroots program with a united voice in protecting professional rights.
With your support, the list will continue to grow!
Help support the massage industry by donating to our legislative efforts.
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