New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10846

Introduced
4/6/26  

Caption

Provides that neither the unauthorized or unlicensed practice of massage therapy, nor aiding or abetting of unauthorized or unlicensed practice of massage therapy, shall be deemed as the crime of unauthorized practice.

Impact

The proposed changes could significantly impact the enforcement of massage therapy regulations in New York. By clarifying the legality of certain actions, the bill could lead to a reexamination of how unauthorized practices are prosecuted. Should the bill pass, those who engage in unlicensed massage therapy may face a less oppressive legal environment, impacting their businesses and how regulators approach enforcement of licensing laws. Additionally, it might also shift public perceptions about the seriousness of unlicensed practices within the state.

Summary

Bill A10846 aims to amend the education law in New York regarding the unauthorized or unlicensed practice of massage therapy. The legislation defines unauthorized practice in this profession and establishes penalties for individuals who engage in such practices without a proper license. Notably, it specifies that aiding or abetting the unauthorized practice of massage therapy will not be classified as a crime of unauthorized practice under the current law, potentially lessening stringent legal repercussions against those who may not hold a license but contribute to the facilitation of such practices.

Contention

However, there are notable points of contention surrounding A10846. Some stakeholders may argue that diminishing the penalties for aiding or abetting unlicensed practice could undermine the overall integrity and professional standards of massage therapy in New York. Critics could contend that such a move may encourage individuals to operate outside the law, potentially placing consumers at risk and compromising service quality. The bill thus might ignite debates on balancing regulatory enforcement with the accessibility of massage therapy services.

Companion Bills

NY S09510

Same As Provides that neither the unauthorized or unlicensed practice of massage therapy, nor aiding or abetting of unauthorized or unlicensed practice of massage therapy, shall be deemed as the crime of unauthorized practice.

Previously Filed As

NY S09510

Provides that neither the unauthorized or unlicensed practice of massage therapy, nor aiding or abetting of unauthorized or unlicensed practice of massage therapy, shall be deemed as the crime of unauthorized practice.

NY SB221

Massage Therapy Practice; the number of education hours applicable to licensed massage therapists; increase

NY SB246

Massage Therapy Practice Changes

NY S01271

Relates to requiring a licensed massage therapist to display such licensed massage therapist's license when practicing and the required contents of such license, including at a minimum the licensee's name, license number and a non-removable photograph of such licensee.

NY AB1703

Osteopathic physicians and surgeons: unauthorized practice: unauthorized use of titles.

NY H4819

Unauthorized Practice of Law Prevention Act

NY S0198

Permits physical therapists to continue to order diagnostic imaging as an authorized practice of physical therapy beyond December 31, 2025.

NY H6060

Permits physical therapists to continue to order diagnostic imaging as an authorized practice of physical therapy beyond December 31, 2025.

NY HB1282

Concerning The Unauthorized Practice Of Law.

NY H0465

Admission To Practice Law by Unauthorized Alien

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.