Duff: Measure Will Restore Image of Massage Therapy Profession
State Sen. Bob Duff
May 2, 2007

In a unanimous vote, the Connecticut Senate today approved by consent legislation to prohibit anyone other than a licensed massage therapist from using the title "massage therapist." The bill, the product of a two-year effort by state Senator Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), would work to restore the image of the massage therapist profession, which has suffered the tarnish of illegal operations opening shop under the same name.

"Over the past two years, we've crafted legislation that not only will ensure that the legitimate massage therapy industry in this state is preserved," said Senator Duff, "but also will help to protect our neighborhoods and families from businesses that are operating under false pretenses."

Current law prohibits the use of the title "Connecticut licensed massage therapist" by anyone other than a licensed therapist. The new provisions, a response to raids on parlors and spas around the state that have found illegal activities such as prostitution, drug distribution, and human trafficking, would create more stringent regulations regarding the advertising of massage services.

"Many members of the massage therapy industry contributed to this, and their work was really invaluable," Senator Duff said. "I'm grateful for their tireless efforts."

Businesses would also be prohibited from advertising services as a massage therapist without a Connecticut license and would require that license numbers be included on all advertising materials. The Department of Public Health would be responsible for enforcing the regulation.

The bill now moves to the House and the governor for approval. The legislative session adjourns on June 6, 2007.

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