Rhode Island § 5-95-8 - Licensing of Massage Therapists

§ 5-95-8. Board of massage therapists — Powers, responsibilities, 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) Establish and enforce standards of professional and ethical conduct for licensed massage therapists;

(3) Impose discipline in accordance with this chapter;

(4) 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 chapter 35 of title 42 (“administrative procedures”) ;

(5) Maintain a complete record of all licensed massage therapists, including disciplinary data, and ensure licensee compliance with all established requirements;

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

(7) The board shall 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;

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

(9) The board shall review investigative reports deemed necessary by the director or may initiate a complaint on its own pursuant to § 5-95-11 or § 5-95-12;

(10) Undertake other such duties, powers, and authority as may be necessary to the enforcement of this chapter and rules duly promulgated hereunder, determined to be in the interest of public protection through the regulation of the profession.