TDLR Issues Emergency Order Against Greater DFW Intl Massage Academy, Revokes License
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has issued an emergency order to immediately halt operations of the Greater DFW Intl Massage Academy LLC in Plano and revoke its massage school license.
The emergency order was issued after TDLR found reasonable cause to believe the school engaged in serious violations of state law and rules, including falsifying student records and failing to meet required education and attendance standards. A TDLR inspection revealed that the school failed to terminate students who had not accrued any clock hours for months, granted academic credit before students obtained required Massage Student Permits, and submitted records showing attendance and hours for time periods that had not yet occurred. TDLR determined that immediate action was necessary to protect public health and safety.
The Department also identified broader public safety concerns. The school’s practices enabled individuals to obtain massage therapy licenses without completing required training. TDLR further identified connections between individuals associated with the school and illicit massage businesses, including establishments where evidence of human trafficking was observed.
TDLR is proactively working to assist legitimate students impacted by the closure by providing guidance on how to verify completed education hours and continue the licensure process.
“Massage therapy is a respected profession that plays an important role in the health and wellness of Texans,” said TDLR Executive Director Courtney Arbour. “We will not tolerate fraudulent conduct that undermines that profession or puts the public at risk. At the same time, we are committed to supporting students who followed the law and holding bad actors accountable.”
This action is part of TDLR’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and shut down illicit massage businesses operating under the guise of legitimate establishments.
Under the emergency order, the school must immediately cease operations and may not provide massage education services in Texas unless otherwise authorized.