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Bill

Bill

AB 1504

California Massage Therapy Council.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Marc Berman

California establishes a new Massage Therapy Council to license, regulate, and oversee massage therapists, setting professional standards and consumer protections statewide.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 197, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 1504

Legislative bill overview

AB 1504 establishes the California Massage Therapy Council, a new regulatory body tasked with overseeing the massage therapy profession in California. The bill creates governance structures, licensing requirements, and enforcement mechanisms for massage therapists operating within the state.

Why is this important

Massage therapy is a growing wellness industry, and this legislation provides formal regulatory oversight to protect consumers from unlicensed practitioners and ensure professional standards. The council will establish training requirements, conduct licensing examinations, and investigate complaints—creating a more uniform regulatory framework across California.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry compliance costs: Massage therapy businesses and independent practitioners may face increased licensing fees, continuing education requirements, and administrative burdens that could reduce profitability or accessibility
  • Scope of practice clarity: Disputes may arise over which massage techniques fall under regulatory authority versus what constitutes medical practice, particularly regarding therapeutic versus wellness services
  • Enforcement and resources: The council's effectiveness depends on adequate funding and staffing; insufficient resources could lead to slow complaint processing or inconsistent license enforcement across the state

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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