State Recognition for Iowa

Recognized? Yes – Title protection

Recognition Status: Title protection was established in 2021. Practitioners must hold the MT-BC credential.

Active Task Force? Yes

Year Started: 2008

Task Force Status: Created a fact sheet, coordinated an advocacy CMTE (04/11) and created a Licensure FAQ to answer questions. Continue to develop relationships with legislators and explore recognition options, including reviewing process recommended by Bureau of Professional Licensure. Held well-attended Advocacy CMTE during 2012 regional music therapy conference. Facilitated multiple advocacy events in November 2012, which generated interested supporters. Following the creation of the Iowa Music Therapy State Recognition Task force in 2008, and 5 years of advocacy within the state, the first music therapy licensure bills were filed in House and Senate 2013. These bills have been re-introduced in 2014, 2015, and 2016, and have met with significant opposition from the SLP, OT, and mental health counseling communities. Despite this opposition, the TF continues to advocate for music therapy state recognition. Since 2013, they have organized at least one Hill Day per legislative session. In 2015 and 2016, weekly presence at the Capitol during the session by music therapists has assisted in a strong, positive presence and advocacy. During the 2017 legislative session, the task force worked to gain a wider base of support from state organizations, state departments, and legislators. Successfully, the efforts were positively received throughout the Capitol with frequent visits during the active session. The efforts continue forward as they seek recognition through change in regulatory language.

Task Force Contact Name: Stephanie Johnson

Task Force Contact Email: iowataskforce@gmail.com

Task Force Members: Laura Adams, Hayley Graham, Melanie Harms, Morgan Henderson, Rebecca Jennings-Boyer, Stephanie Johnson, Erica Rath, Lucy Schipper

Task Force Facebook: Iowa Music Therapy State Recognition Task Force

State Association: www.musictherapyiowa.org

State Association Facebook:

Regional Association: www.mw-amta.com

State Legislative Activity:

Below you will find a link to an online report with information about state-level bills that include the keyword “music therapy.” There may or may not be a bill for your state. Some bills may have a direct impact on the profession (e.g. music therapy licensure legislation) while others may not (e.g. music therapy is included in a pre-existing list of healthcare providers). 

Click here to read the report

Information is provided by Fiscal Note, a subscription service that allows CBMT to follow state and federal legislative and regulatory developments. This resource is provided for informational purposes to help you stay informed on legislative and policy issues impacting music therapy practice. Please contact your task force chair with questions and before taking any action.