Delaware Passes Bill to Phase Out CMT Licenses

We are pleased to report that after the strong advocacy efforts of the AMTA Government Relations Team, the AMTA-DE Chapter and dedicated volunteers, Delaware has passed Senate Bill 277 (SB 277). The bill, which passed on June 20, is now awaiting Governor Carney's signature. The passage of SB 277 seeks to phase out Certified Massage Technicians (CMTs) to establish a single tier of licensure, aligning with the standards followed by nearly all other states.

The passage of SB 277 will require future massage therapy practitioners to obtain 500 hours of education and pass a board-approved, psychometrically valid entry-level examination. AMTA fully supports the elimination of a multi-tiered regulatory process. Requiring 500 hours of education for all new licensees helps to ensure that massage therapy is practiced safely, ethically, and effectively, benefiting both clients and practitioners alike.

Current CMTs Can Continue to Practice

Current CMTs will be allowed to maintain their certification and right to work under this title, provided they follow all renewal guidelines already in effect. Delaware bill drafters have worked with the massage school that provides the 300 hour CMT program to establish the final date for new CMTs to apply. This final group of CMTs will graduate at the end of August 2024 and will have until December 31, 2024 to obtain a certification from the Board.

We encourage you to reach out to our AMTA Government Relations team with any questions regarding this new legislation.