Provides for the licensure of reflexology practitioners

4 Co-sponsors

• Joseph P. Addabbo Jr.
• John J. Bonacic
• Liz Krueger
• Suzi Oppenheimer

BILL NUMBER:S4247

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to the licensure of reflexology practitioners

Purpose or general idea of bill

This bill will make available that any person wishing to practice Reflexology in the state of New York be allowed to do so in so long as all criteria in this article for licensing be met.

Summary of specific provisions

This bill introduces a new article 155-A to education law. The new article will describe the terminology as to the definition of Reflexology and the criteria needed to practice Reflexology in the State of New York.

Section § 7850, applies to the profession of reflexology.

Section § 7851, describes the terminology and how the terms relate to being used in the law.

Section § 7852, describes how the title Reflexologist will be used and who can claim to be a New York state licensed Reflexologist.

Section § 7853,

Section 1. Describes how the State Board of Reflexology will be created and how the members of such board will be appointed.

Section 2. Provides that the Board of Regents and the commissioner shall put in law the rules and regulations to effectuate this article.

Section § 7854, subsection (1) (A,B,C,D,E,F,G,H, and I) provides for requirements to be fulfilled in order to become a licensed practitioner of Reflexology in New York State. Subsection (2). Describes how long the term of a license will be valid.

Section § 7855, Subsection (1) describes persons authorized to practice in a specific medical field shall be exempt from this article. subsection (2) any person practicing Reflexology as an employee in a medical institution that is licensed or chartered in New York State can do so with on-site supervision from another person duly licensed or authorized by New York State.

Section § 7856, describes limited permits that are for a period of time not to exceed 12 months or until the next examination.

Section § 7857, special provisions, Notwithstanding the requirements, an individual currently engaging in the practice of Reflexology may continue to practice after the effective date by meeting certain criteria.

Justification

Public interest in complementary therapies continues to grow and many nurses and midwives are incorporating complementary therapies such as reflexology. Reflexology is potentially a very valuable therapeutic nursing skill and could have wide-ranging and cost-effective benefits in health care, from special care baby units through to care of the elderly. Like many other complementary therapies, reflexology seems to restore and maintain health by rebalancing the body. Whilst too many, reflexology may appear a gentle therapy, it is vital that the contraindications are known and that it is only carried out by trained Reflexologist. Reflexology is a noninvasive, integrative therapy based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet, hands and ears which correspond to all body systems. By applying specific pressure using thumb, finger and hand techniques, these reflex points/areas are stimulated and work to revitalize and harmonize the functions of the body therapy effecting a physiological change. This bill recognizes Reflexology is unique and distinct from other integrative disciplines. It is therefore important to set standards reflecting safety practices that are up to date and periodically monitored. New York State currently provides none of the above for practicing Reflexology; however this bill would set standards for this profession.

Prior legislative history

2009-10 A.10076 (Latimer) Referred to Assembly Higher Education

Fiscal implications

Monies collected from licensing would generate additional revenue for the state.

Effective date

This act will take effect immediately.