Requires a licensed massage therapist to present a state issued photo identification card when requested at the time of performing services.
Summary
A03882 would amend the Education Law to require licensed and registered massage therapists in New York to obtain a professional photo identification card issued by the Department and, upon request, present that card at the time and place where they are providing services. The bill is aimed at ensuring that clients, inspectors, or other authorized requesters can verify that the person performing massage therapy is properly licensed.
The measure also sets a compliance timeline: it would take effect 180 days after becoming law, and all licensed massage therapists would be required to be in compliance within one year of the effective date. In practical terms, the bill adds an identification requirement to the existing licensing and title-use rules governing massage therapy under Article 155 of the Education Law.
Impact
The bill would directly amend section 7802 of the Education Law, adding a new statutory obligation for massage therapists to carry and present a state-issued professional photo ID card when requested. It would affect licensed and registered massage therapists, the State Education Department, and potentially consumers and enforcement authorities by creating a new verification mechanism tied to licensure and practice compliance.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests the bill was received favorably in committee, passing the Assembly Higher Education Committee 26-0 and being referred onward to the Committee on Codes. No committee transcript is available, but the unanimous vote indicates broad support and little visible opposition at that stage.
Contention
No specific objections are recorded in the provided materials, but the likely policy issue is whether requiring therapists to present a state-issued photo ID adds a reasonable consumer-protection and enforcement tool or creates an unnecessary administrative burden on licensed practitioners. Any contention would likely center on privacy, implementation logistics, and whether the requirement meaningfully improves oversight of massage therapy services.
Same As
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.