An Act relative to music therapy licensure

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kate Donaghue

Bill H 3939 establishes a licensure framework for music therapists in Massachusetts, ensuring qualified professionals and ethical standards for client care.

Accompanied a study order, see H4711

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3939 aims to establish a formal licensure framework for music therapists in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to create a Board of Registration for Music Therapists within the Department of Public Health, ensuring that music therapy is practiced by qualified professionals and that ethical standards are upheld in the field.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

Establishment of the Board

Composition: The board will consist of five members appointed by the governor, including:

One public representative
Two board-certified music therapists with at least three years of practice in Massachusetts
Two educators of music therapy with at least three years of teaching experience in a post-secondary institution in Massachusetts

Term Length: Members will serve three-year terms, with initial appointments staggered to include terms of one, two, and three years.

Responsibilities of the Board

Licensure Requirements: The board will establish the criteria for licensure, investigate complaints, and evaluate the qualifications of applicants.

Ethical Standards: The board will set ethical standards for practice and may adopt certification standards from the Certification Board of Music Therapists or similar organizations.

Regulatory Authority: The board is empowered to create rules and regulations necessary for its operations.

Definition of Music Therapy

Scope of Practice: Music therapy is defined as the clinical use of music interventions to achieve individualized therapeutic goals. It includes various techniques such as music improvisation, songwriting, and music-assisted relaxation.

Limitations: The practice does not include the diagnosis or assessment of physical, mental, or communication disorders.

Impact

Professionals: The bill will directly affect music therapists in Massachusetts by establishing a licensure requirement, thereby enhancing professional standards and public trust in music therapy services.

Clients: Individuals seeking music therapy services will benefit from the assurance that practitioners are qualified and adhere to established ethical standards.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: March 31, 2025

Current Status: The bill has been accompanied by a study order (H4711) as of November 10, 2025, indicating further examination is needed before proceeding.

Hearing Scheduled: A hearing is set for June 2, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room B-2, allowing for public input on the proposed legislation.

Related Legislation

HD 3582: This bill replaces House Docket No. 3582, which may contain related provisions or context for the current legislation.

This summary provides an overview of Bill H 3939, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on the music therapy profession and its clients in Massachusetts.

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