MarylandSB 04922026 Regular SessionSenate

Health Occupations - Massage Therapy - Advertising

Sponsored By: Pamela Beidle (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Health OccupationsAdvertisingComplaintsHealth Occupations -see also- (specific health occupations)Internet -see also- Internet AccessLicenses -see also- AB Lic; Certifications; DrLic; PermitsMassageNamesRules and RegulationsSigns and BillboardsTime

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.

Board sets massage ad rules

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Board sets standards for massage advertising and soliciting. The rules define banned words and images and explain how anyone can report a violation. They apply to licensed therapists, registered practitioners, and third-party advertisers. Mailing appointment reminders to patients does not count as advertising. The Board may use its normal discipline process for violations.

Sexual-service ads banned for massage

The law bans massage ads that state or imply prostitution, escorting, or sexual services. You also cannot place ads on websites known for those services. For online ads that break this rule, each day the ad is visible counts as a separate violation. Not removing a violating public sign or billboard is a violation. Any such sign that was visible on October 1, 2026 must be removed by May 1, 2027. These rules apply to licensed therapists, registered practitioners, and third-party advertisers.

Trade names allowed; names must match

Beginning October 1, 2026, licensed and registered massage practitioners may use a trade name if it is not deceptive. Ads that use a trade name must also show the licensed practitioner or business entity name, and the practitioner’s name must appear on bills and receipts. Treatment records must show who provided the service. If an ad lists a practitioner by name, it must match the name on the Board license or registration. The law ends the old rule that every ad had to show the full name and license number.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Pamela Beidle
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 178 • No: 0

House vote • 4/2/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 133 • No: 0 • Other: 2

Senate vote • 3/12/2026