New Rules and Guidlines of the NC Board 10/3/08

With the passing of Senate Bill 1314 amending the Massage Practice Act, the NC Board is in the process of changing Rules and Guidelines. Several Rules have already been changed, approved and are effective as of October 1, 2008. These changes may affect currently licensed massage therapists and will absolutely impact those applying for initial licensure.

Of particular note for those seeking initial licensure is a revision to Guideline 1.8 adopted 8/21/08 pending the approval of Rule Amendment .0201 (6). This revision approves the The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MSBLEx) administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards. The Board is now able to accept applications from licensure applicants who have taken the MSBLEx as well as the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) examinations. There is current discussion considering a Guideline revision to phase out the NCBTMB examinations as approved exams.

I urge that everyone stay abreast of discussions and revisions to the Rules and Guidelines affecting your practice. Check the Board website frequently, look for updates here and go to Board meetings to participate in the process.

NC Legislative Update 7/14/08

Senate Bill 1314 was passed in the Senate tonight 44 to 0. This is the last vote that will be taken on the bill. It goes from here to the Governor for his signature. Once it is enacted, all but Section 18 can go into effect as soon as the BMBT is ready to move forward with it. Section 18 can go into effect on December 1. This was a change made by bill drafting based on legal guidelines pertaining to enforcement requirements on criminal matters.

Senate Bill 1314 was introduced on March 26, 2007 by Senator Cowell. SB 1314 amends the laws under the North Carolina massage and bodywork therapy practice act to expand the existing laws regulating massage and bodywork therapy schools; to authorize the board to establish fees for licensing massage and bodywork therapy schools; to allow the department of justice to conduct criminal history record checks from state and national repositories of criminal history of applicants for licensure to practice massage and bodywork therapy; and to amend the existing laws regarding adult entertainment. Click here to view and click on ratified version.

NC Licnese Renewal Deadline is November 1!

Don't get caught short on your continuing education hours. Consider registering today for one of the exciting new courses being offered this Fall. I'm planning to participate in Michael Alicia's Complete Neck Series workshop September 13 & 14. It has played to rave reviews in New York, here are some of the comments.....

"The class was magnificent. I look forward to taking more classes with Michael Alicia in the future. I would absolutely recommend this class."

" So many people ask for neck work. Michael showed more than I could ever imagine. It was excellent."

" Michael is extremely knowledgeable and gifted. I would recommend him to anyone."

Hope to see you there!

LC

Graduate Clinic Coming Soon

Speaking with graduates I'm hearing that many of you would like the opportunity do a few sessions a week to keep your skills up while in transition, or just to supplement your income while buidling your practice. I'm hoping we can start up a graduate clinic working from the school to fill this need. It is still in the planning stages.... but I envision the therapists as independent contractors. TMTI will provide clients and the space to work; graduates provide supplies and tell us when to schedule. Offering it at clinic rates, maybe $45 a session, will generate volume business and a modest return for everyone. Let me know if you are interested in participating and any thoughts you have about setting it up.

LC

Summer Sale

For a limited time we are offering the "Massage Team" ball caps at below cost. These are great caps in 100% heavy cotton, embroidered with Massage Team on the front and TMTI on the back. Proven to be a conversation starter and a way to promote our work every time you wear it. Available in khaki or black for only $8.00 plus tax.

We are also offering a new line of organic and vegan massage creams and lotions by Sacred Earth.

News and Notes