| SUMMARY OF: | A Sunset Review of the Department of Commerce,
Community, and Economic Development, Board of Massage Therapists |
Why DLA Performed This Audit
The purpose of this audit was to determine if there is a need for the board’s continued existence and whether its termination date should be extended. The board is set to sunset June 30, 2018, and will have one year from that date to conclude its administrative operations.
Report Conclusions
In all areas except licensing, the audit found the board was operating in the public’s interest. In general, meetings were conducted effectively, investigations were appropriately processed, and the board actively issued or changed regulations to improve the industry and better protect the public.
The audit concluded the board and DCBPL staff should improve its licensing procedures. Testing found that applicants were not consistently issued licenses in accordance with statutes, regulations, and/or procedures. Additionally, improvements are needed to comply with the federal standards over criminal history record information obtained as part of the licensing process.
In accordance with AS 08.03.010(c)(12), the board is scheduled to terminate on June 30, 2018. We recommend that the legislature extend the board’s termination date to June 30, 2022.
Findings and Recommendations
- The Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing’s (DCBPL) director, in consultation with the board, should take action to improve procedures to ensure licensure requirements are met.
- DCBPL’s director should address the Federal Bureau of Investigations audit findings and concerns.
- The director of the Office of the Governor, Boards and Commissions should work to fill the public member position.