All Roll Calls
Yes: 178 • No: 0
MarylandHB 00422026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET
Health Occupations - State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners - Revisions
Sponsored By: Heather Bagnall (Democratic)
Signed by Governor
Health OccupationsAccreditationApplicants and ApplicationsCommittees and CommissionsCriminal Background InvestigationsHealth Occupations -see also- (specific health occupations)HearingsHigher Education CommissionJob Training -see also- Continuing Ed; Vocational RehabLicenses -see also- AB Lic; Certifications; DrLic; PermitsMassagePenalties and Sentences -see also- Death PenaltyRegistration -see also- Motor Vehicle RegistrationTime
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.
Massage registrations end; licenses replace them
Starting October 1, 2024, the Board cannot issue new registrations for massage practice. The Board converts existing registrations to licenses if you meet Board rules, and does so by October 31, 2026. Beginning November 1, 2026, you must hold a license to practice massage therapy in Maryland.
Higher training bar, easier out-of-state entry
Starting July 1, 2026, a license requires at least 750 contact hours from a Board‑approved, accredited program endorsed by COMTA or an equivalent body. You must be at least 18, be of good moral character, pass a Board‑approved exam, and complete a State and national criminal history check. If you graduated out of state and lack hours, you can make them up hour‑for‑hour with Board‑approved education or continuing education, or show 1,000 licensed hands‑on hours in the last 2 years. The Board may waive requirements for an out‑of‑state licensee who pays the fee and shows equivalent education, exam, and good moral character.
License reinstatement, inactive status, and $100 fine
Starting July 1, 2026, the Board reinstates an expired license or registration if you apply within 5 years, meet renewal rules, complete a State and national criminal history check, and pay the fee. After 5 years, you must apply as a new applicant under current licensing rules. You may request inactive status by application and fee; to reactivate, meet continuing education and CPR rules, complete a criminal history check, and pay the reactivation fee. You must tell the Board in writing within 60 days if your name or address changes or face a $100 penalty.
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Sponsors & Cosponsors
Sponsor
Heather Bagnall
Democratic • House
Cosponsors
There are no cosponsors for this bill.
Roll Call Votes
Senate vote • 4/6/2026
Third Reading Passed
Yes: 46 • No: 0 • Other: 1
House vote • 2/19/2026
Third Reading Passed
Yes: 132 • No: 0 • Other: 7
Actions Timeline
Approved by the Governor - Chapter 192
4/28/2026Returned Passed
4/7/2026HouseThird Reading Passed (46-0)
4/6/2026SenateFavorable Adopted Second Reading Passed
3/31/2026SenateFavorable Report by Finance
3/30/2026SenateReferred Finance
2/20/2026SenateThird Reading Passed (132-0)
2/19/2026HouseSecond Reading Passed
2/17/2026HouseFavorable Adopted
2/17/2026HouseFavorable Report by Health
2/16/2026HouseHearing 2/04 at 1:00 p.m.
1/22/2026HouseFirst Reading Health
1/14/2026HousePre-filed
10/14/2025House
Bill Text
Third Reading
2/17/2026
First Reading
1/14/2026
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