Where The Interstate Compact Actually Stands

The AMTA 2026 National Convention was fun, informational and a great place to meet up with AMTA staff and other AMTA members.

As Chair of the AMTA-MA Chapter Government Relations (GR) Committee, I was invited to a meeting of GR Chairs and Chapter Presidents hosted by National AMTA.

The meeting emphasized communication between the Chapter volunteers and National AMTA; especially regarding communication regarding the Interstate Compact and what other organizations may present to them. We want to make sure that we are clear in distinguishing between the AMTA and what other organizations may say as we want our understanding to be clear.

National is also restructuring its lobbyist relationships to ensure consistency across states.

National continues work on major regulatory priorities, including meeting state education‑hour requirements, developing national standards of practice, and exploring how massage may interface with Medicare. They recognize that not all therapists want to be placed under health departments or participate in billing. Once standards of practice are established, National will be able to guide states on minimum hours, grandfathering, documentation expectations, and related regulatory issues.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the interstate compact. AMTA will not accept the original version, and CSG/DOD (Council of State Governments and Department of Defense) are committed to the revised version, which removes undue FSMTB influence and has broad stakeholder support. FSMTB is resisting participation in revision discussions. Both compact versions require a national exam, with only the MBLEx and the old NCBTMB certificate exam accepted. Many therapists do not meet required school hours, but those with two years of practice, an active massage license, and an accepted exam may still qualify. Concerns remain about increased education costs and the need for additional portability options beyond the compact.

States that passed the original compact will need a pathway to adopt the revised version, and AMTA can assist with that transition. Any future rule changes must be approved by all states that have adopted the compact. The revised version also specifies that AMTA state chapters should not face additional financial burdens. National is partnering with multiple organizations to develop standards of practice, with in‑person meetings planned in the next 6–8 months. Oregon and Minnesota were highlighted for unique regulatory circumstances. The meeting closed with concerns about how massage therapists can have a meaningful voice in decisions about education hours, standards, and broader professional regulation.