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SF 1131

Minnesota Massage Therapy and Asian Bodywork Therapy Act

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Gustafson and 4 co-sponsors

Minnesota bill establishes regulatory standards for massage and Asian bodywork therapy practitioners to ensure consumer protection and professional licensing requirements.

Comm report: To pass as amended and re-refer to Judiciary and Public Safety
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Bill Summary · SF 1131

Legislative bill overview

SF 1131 proposes to establish or modify regulatory requirements for massage therapy and Asian bodywork therapy practitioners in Minnesota. The bill, introduced in February 2025, has progressed through the Health and Human Services Committee and received a committee report recommending passage as amended, with subsequent referral to Judiciary and Public Safety for consideration of legal and enforcement provisions.

Why is this important

Massage therapy and Asian bodywork therapy are growing healthcare services in Minnesota. Regulatory frameworks directly affect licensing standards, consumer protection, practitioner qualifications, and whether these services can be covered by insurance or integrated into broader healthcare settings. Clear regulations balance protecting the public from unqualified practitioners while allowing access to these services.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definitions: Determining which Asian bodywork therapies (acupressure, shiatsu, etc.) fall under regulation and at what level may create conflict between traditional practitioners and those seeking professional licensing
  • Licensing standards and barriers to entry: Requirements for education hours, testing, and certification could either protect consumers or create economic barriers for practitioners and practitioners from certain cultural backgrounds
  • Insurance and healthcare integration: Whether these therapies qualify for insurance reimbursement or can be performed in medical settings under certain conditions remains a potential legislative debate point

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

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