LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Year-End Status Report Interstate Compacts
AS 2025 CAME TO A CLOSE, progress continued on both the Interstate Massage Compact( IMpact) and the Esthetics Licensure Compact— two initiatives in the U. S. with significant implications for workforce mobility and spa operations nationwide. Throughout the year, ISPA remained committed to keeping members informed about compact developments, legislative momentum and industry advocacy efforts. From timely updates to expert-led discussions, ISPA has served as a trusted source of insight as these compacts move closer to broader adoption. A highlight of that engagement was ISPA’ s final Town Hall of 2025, which brought members together for a candid, in-depth conversation on where both compacts stand and what lies ahead.
Key Updates on the Interstate Massage & Esthetics Licensure Compacts
ISPA’ S FINAL TOWN HALL OF 2025 convened industry leaders to examine the evolving landscape of the Interstate Massage and Esthetics Licensure Compacts and their potential to address one of the spa industry’ s most pressing challenges: workforce shortages. Moderated by Kelleye Martin( ISPA Immediate Past Chair), the session featured expert perspectives from Patty Glenn( director of education and professional mobility at the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards), Leslie Roste( executive director of the Cosmetology Compact Commission and lead developer of the Esthetics Compact), Ashley Scobey( executive eirector of Associated Skin Care Professionals) and Deirdre Strunk( chief operating officer of Viva Day Spa + Med Spa).
“ Just get involved. Help our industry. This is huge for us.”
— DEIRDRE STRUNK
Panelists shared updates on legislative progress, explained how interstate compacts function in practice, and outlined the benefits of license portability for professionals, employers and state economies. Discussion emphasized how compacts can support faster hiring,
PULSE n FEBRUARY 2026 12 seasonal staffing flexibility and greater resilience during workforce disruptions— while maintaining state regulatory authority and consumer protection. Speakers also underscored the importance of grassroots advocacy, encouraging spa leaders and professionals to engage with state legislators, share their business realities and help advance compact adoption. The session reinforced that informed, collective action will be essential to moving both compacts forward in 2026 and beyond.
“ It’ s bi-directional: If it is passed in your state, it benefits people coming into your state, but it also benefits you. It benefits employers, because you can cast a wider net. You can look across a state line. You can move people seasonally.”
— LESLIE ROSTE
CALL TO ACTION To stay ahead of legislative developments affecting workforce mobility and the spa industry, ISPA members are encouraged to participate in advocacy efforts and engage with future education opportunities through ISPA’ s Town Halls, iLearn platform and industry communications. n