Subcommittee advances massage‑therapy compact with amendments despite industry objections

The Health Professions Subcommittee voted to report House Bill 579 with amendments after extended discussion and public comment from regulatory and provider groups.

Delegate Glass said HB 579 updates the existing interstate massage therapy compact to improve fairness and flexibility, allow recognition of credentials earned before 2015, and let experienced therapists qualify even if they lack the compact's 625‑hour minimum. Glass said the changes were intended to make the compact more attractive so additional states will join; currently only five states have enacted the compact and seven are required to form a commission.

An attorney for the patron read two technical amendments and the committee accepted them. Opponents including Patty Glenn of the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards said the amendments make "material changes" that could allow individuals who meet only a reduced education requirement plus two years of an unencumbered license to enter the compact, creating a "gaping hole" that, in her view, could increase opportunities for human trafficking and allow bad actors to circumvent safeguards. Cal Cates of Heal Well, a provider that places licensed therapists in health‑care settings, warned the amended language could impede licensed therapists' ability to work in clinical settings.

Delegate Glass acknowledged the concerns, reiterated the compact was developed with the Council of State Governments and the Department of Defense, and emphasized that the legislation is necessary to bring Virginia to the table for interstate rulemaking. After discussion, the subcommittee recommended HB 579 be reported with amendments on a recorded vote of 9 to 0 with 1 abstention.

The report sends the amended bill forward for further consideration; opponents requested additional consultation between stakeholder regulators and the patron before the bill proceeds further.