New York has demonstrated continued interest in the Interstate Massage Compact (IMpact), with legislation introduced in the 2024, 2025, and 2026 legislative sessions. While the legislation was introduced in both the Assembly and Senate, it did not advance during the 2026 session.
Even when a bill does not move through the legislative process, each introduction matters. Every time IMpact legislation is introduced, it creates momentum, opens the door for continued education, and provides new opportunities for dialogue with:
The continued introduction of IMpact legislation in New York reflects an important and ongoing conversation about licensure mobility, workforce needs, public protection, and the future of massage therapy regulation.
Support for IMpact in New York remains consistent with national trends and reinforces the need for a more efficient, coordinated licensure model.
Recent survey data from New York massage therapists highlights this support:
Massage therapists in New York report challenges when attempting to practice across state lines. The most commonly cited barriers include:
These barriers can delay employment, limit professional mobility, and create unnecessary administrative burden for qualified practitioners.
As one New York massage therapist shared:
“Unified licensing would reduce unnecessary barriers.”
New York’s massage therapy workforce is part of a broader national profession that is increasingly mobile. However, inconsistent licensing requirements across states create friction that can delay or prevent qualified therapists from working where they are needed.
Survey data also indicates projected utilization, with 87% of New York respondents indicating they would likely obtain a multistate license if available.
These findings reflect a workforce that is:
Your voice matters.
Continued engagement helps ensure that legislators clearly understand the needs and priorities of the massage therapy profession. Each conversation, letter, and shared story helps build understanding and keeps IMpact moving forward in New York.
You can help continue the momentum:
Every message reinforces that the need for IMpact is real — and that New York massage therapists are ready to be part of a more efficient path forward.
New York has already begun the important work of legislative education and stakeholder engagement. The repeated introduction of IMpact legislation provides a foundation for continued conversation and future progress.
With continued engagement from the massage therapy community, New York is well-positioned to keep building momentum, strengthen understanding among policymakers, and advance the discussion around safe, responsible, and efficient license mobility.
