In 2010, MNHLRP worked to defeat unnecessary licensure/registration of Massage Therapists in Minnesota. In the end, the bill was tabled in the Senate Health Committee because the proponents were unable to demonstrate that it was necessary. MN Statute 214 specifically states that licensure is about protecting the public, not giving a pat on the to practitioners.
Also in 2010, a repeal of a workers compensation statute preventing the payment of Statute 146A practitioners was all but assured until Governor Pawlenty promised a veto of the omnibus bill to which it was attached.
Near the end of the 2010 session, MNHLRP introduced a bill in both the state house and senate to establish Expanded Medical Practices for licensed practitioners in MN. It was too late for action to be taken in 2010, but we will be busy with it in 2011.
In 2009 we worked to ensure the protection of Statute 146A. The office of Complimentary and Alternative Practices (OCAP) in the Minnesota Department of Health handles Statute 146A complaints, and could have been closed due to budget cuts.
We educated legislators about unnecessary occupational regulation of health occupations. Minnesota Statute 214 states that occupational regulation shall be imposed to protect the public from harm, which must be recognizable and not remote.
MNHLRP lobbied for repeal of a Workers Compensation provision enacted in 2008 which effectively banned Natural Health Practitioners from receiving payments from Worker’s Compensation payments/funds even though no misuse was alleged. The Repealwas passed by the legislature but vetoed by the Governor.
Prior to and during the 2010 legislative session, we will continue to educate legislators on Statute 146A, Statute 214 and will address other issues that have become more urgent in recent months.