§ 23-20.8-4. Board of massage therapists - Powers and duties. Subject to the provisions of this chapter, the board shall have the authority to implement, interpret, and enforce this statute including, but not limited to, the authority to:

(1) Adopt rules and regulations governing the licensure of massage therapists in a manner consistent with the provisions of this chapter and in accordance with the procedures outlined in the administrative procedures act and promulgated in accordance with state law;

(2) Evaluate the qualifications of applicants for licensure;

(3) Assess entry-level competence through the use of an examination approved by the board;

(4) Recommend the issuing or renewal of a license to applicants or licensed massage therapists who meet the qualifications of the statute and all rules applicable to this chapter as promulgated by the board;

(5) Establish and enforce standards of professional and ethical conduct for licensed massage therapists;

(6) Adopt rules that endorse equivalent licensure examinations of another state or territory of the United States, the District of Columbia, or a foreign country and that may include licensure by reciprocity; hold hearings, as necessary, in accordance with the administrative procedures act;

(7) Maintain a complete record of all licensed massage therapists, ensure licensee compliance with all established requirements;

(8) The board will make an annual report to the governor that shall contain duties performed, actions taken, and appropriate recommendations;

(9) The board will consult and advise other regulatory entities as necessary regarding issues pertaining to massage therapy education and/or issues related to the regulation of massage therapists;

(10) Upon receipt of a complaint, the department of health shall authorize the investigation of any allegations of wrongdoing undertaken by any person, entity, license or organization related to the practice of massage therapy;

(11) The board shall review investigative reports deemed necessary by the director and make appropriate recommendations to the director for action including, but not limited to, issuance of a letter of concern or warning of the possible infraction of this statute; issuance of a letter initiating a ten-day (10) corrective action period allowing the person practicing to address an infraction; suspension for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days of any license issued under the authority of this chapter; and may, after due notice and hearing, revoke the license if it is found that the person practicing massage therapy is in violation of those rules and regulations or any provision of this chapter. The holder of a license shall upon its revocation promptly surrender it to the board or its designee.

History of Section. (P.L. 1978, ch. 230, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-58-4; P.L. 1979, ch. 39, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 23-20.8-4; P.L. 2001, ch. 86, § 5; P.L. 2013, ch. 165, § 3; P.L. 2013, ch. 222, § 3; P.L. 2019, ch. 114, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 140, § 1.)