HB1224
To Amend The Automatic Occupational Licensure For Out-of-state Licensure Act; And To Apply The Automatic Occupational Licensure For Out-of-state Licensure Act To Massage Therapists.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1224 of the 95th General Assembly of Arkansas, aims to amend the existing Automatic Occupational Licensure for Out-of-State Licensure Act. The primary purpose of the amendment is to extend the provisions of this act to include massage therapists. Currently, the Act pertains to certain occupational licensure but does not explicitly mention massage therapists. By amending Arkansas Code § 17-7-106, the bill will make massage therapists eligible for automatic occupational licensure if they hold a valid license in another state. This change seeks to streamline the process for out-of-state licensed massage therapists wishing to practice in Arkansas. The bill focuses specifically on modifying the exemptions and applicability of the automatic licensure act. Its stated intent is to facilitate the practice of massage therapy for those already licensed elsewhere.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be massage therapists who are licensed in other states and wish to practice in Arkansas. By extending the automatic occupational licensure for out-of-state licensure act to them, these individuals would experience a simplified and potentially faster process for obtaining a license to practice in Arkansas. This could reduce bureaucratic hurdles, associated costs, and time delays, making it easier for them to relocate and begin working. Additionally, consumers in Arkansas might benefit from an increased availability of licensed massage therapists.
Who Might Suffer?
There are no direct groups or entities explicitly identified in the provided text that would be negatively impacted by this bill. The bill focuses on expanding an existing licensure act, suggesting a facilitation of practice for a specific profession. Potential indirect impacts could arise if the influx of out-of-state licensed massage therapists increases competition within the state, potentially affecting the business of existing Arkansas-licensed massage therapists. However, the text itself does not detail such potential negative consequences, focusing solely on the procedural change for licensure.