Tennessee Senate Bill SB2446

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4 and Title 63, relative to massage therapy.

Impact

If enacted, SB2446 will have significant implications for how massage therapy is practiced and regulated in Tennessee and other member states. It aims to streamline licensure, making it easier for licensed professionals to work across state lines, which is particularly beneficial for military families and other mobile professionals. The compact also emphasizes the need for states to share information regarding complaints, disciplinary actions, and licensure verification to maintain consistent public protection standards. Additionally, it will foster collaboration among states regarding regulatory practices and standards.

Summary

Senate Bill 2446 proposes to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated by introducing the Interstate Massage Compact, which aims to facilitate the regulation and practice of massage therapy across state lines. This compact allows for the creation of a multistate licensing program that permits licensed massage therapists to practice in member states without needing separate licenses from each state, thereby enhancing mobility and access to services in the field. The initiative is designed not only to ease the burden of licensing for therapists but also to ensure the protection of public safety and health standards.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding SB2446 may center on concerns about the adequacy of state-level regulations being maintained under a multistate framework. Opponents may argue that such a compact could dilute specific state regulations aimed at protecting public health, particularly given issues related to human trafficking and licensure fraud that have historically affected the massage therapy profession. Ensuring that all states involved maintain rigorous safety and educational standards will be critical to the implementation of the compact without compromising public welfare.