Georgia Board of Massage Therapy: Public Statement – 04/23/2010 Board Meeting:
Numerous organizations and individuals have asked the Board their position on recent legislation and local ordinances. The Board is mandated under state law to license individuals to practice massage therapy and to promote high standards of professional performance. The Board does not regulate or license local business or organizations that offer massage, massage therapy or related services. The Board has taken an active role in issuing cease and desist orders against individuals who practice massage therapy while not holding an active valid license. The Board supports efforts by the states local authority and law enforcement agencies to stop illegal practice of those who violate the Georgia law.
The Georgia Board of Massage Therapy, established by legislation in May 2005, is comprised of five members appointed by the Governor in July 2006 upon funding appropriation. Massage is therapeutic and regulations are necessary to protect the public from unqualified practitioners. It is in the interest of the public to set standards of qualifications, education, training, and experience for those who seek to practice massage therapy; to promote high standards of professional performance for those licensed to practice massage therapy; and to protect the public from unprofessional conduct by persons licensed to practice massage therapy. The board is assigned to the Secretary of State’s office for administrative purposes and is under the jurisdiction of the division director and operates in accordance with and pursuant to the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 43-1, as applicable.
The Board reviews applications, complaints, correspondence and regulates the practice of licensees throughout the state. Board meetings are open to the public and are generally held at the Office of Secretary of State, Professional Licensing Boards Division office located at 237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, Georgia. Meeting dates, time and location are posted on this website.