HB47 Alabama 2011 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Howard Sanderford
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2011
Title: Massage Therapy, Board of, Sunset Law review, continued with modifications to require representation on board from congressional districts and to delete requirement of accreditation by Education Department, Secs. 34-43-3, 34-43-6 am'd.
Summary: HB47 continues the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy, removes the State Department of Education accreditation requirement for massage therapy schools, and requires board representation from every state congressional district.
What This Bill Does
Keeps the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy active under the Sunset Law with changes. Removes the need for massage therapy schools to be accredited by the State Department of Education, allowing board recognition or accreditation by regionally recognized bodies (or CAC) as alternatives. Replaces or strengthens the rule that the board must include representatives from each state congressional district, ensuring geographic coverage. Takes effect immediately after passage.

Who It Affects
Massage therapy schools and therapists in Alabama will be affected by the changed accreditation rules, no longer requiring DOE accreditation and instead relying on board recognition or other recognized accrediting bodies for approval.
Alabama residents and the public will gain broader geographic representation on the regulatory board, as the board must include members from each congressional district, increasing local accountability and oversight.

Key Provisions
Deletes the requirement that massage therapy schools be accredited by the State Department of Education and replaces it with board recognition or accreditation from regionally recognized bodies or CAC as acceptable, for the board-approved schools.
Requires representation on the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy from each state congressional district, ensuring at least one board member from every district.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Massage Therapy, Board of