TDLR Issues Emergency Order Against Harvard Massage Institute Inc and American Massage Academy Inc in Plano, Revokes Licenses
May 22, 2026
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has issued an emergency order to immediately halt operations of Harvard Massage Institute Inc and American Massage Academy Inc in Plano and revoke the schools’ massage school licenses. The order also revokes the Massage Therapist and Massage Therapist Instructor licenses of the owner of both schools, Michael Chao Ma.
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 attendance and internship records, providing instruction through unlicensed individuals, and failing to properly supervise students performing massage services. TDLR determined that immediate action was necessary to protect public health and safety.
A TDLR investigation found that the schools submitted inaccurate and inconsistent records to the Department, including records showing students completing hours during times inspectors observed the schools did not have sufficient activity to support the reported training. Investigators also identified instances where students performed massage services without required licensed supervision and where distance education practices prevented meaningful monitoring of student participation.
Investigators determined the schools were operating in a manner consistent with diploma mills by facilitating unearned credentials for individuals who did not complete required education and training. The Department found that most of the students enrolled at the schools resided outside Texas, with large concentrations from New York and California. Investigators determined it was not feasible for many students to travel to Texas and complete the in-person education, attendance, and supervised internship hours reflected in school records, raising significant concerns regarding the legitimacy of the training and credentials issued by the schools. Additionally, investigators found that only a small percentage of students applied for or obtained Texas massage therapist licenses after graduation, further calling into question the legitimacy and intended purpose of the schools’ programs.
The Department also identified broader public safety concerns tied to illicit massage businesses and suspected human trafficking activity. TDLR investigators identified multiple cases in which students or graduates associated with the schools were connected to illicit massage establishments that had previously been the subject of enforcement actions. In some cases, investigators found evidence consistent with human trafficking indicators, including individuals living inside massage establishments and evidence of illicit sexual activity on-site.
“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, puts the public at risk. At the same time, we are committed to supporting students who followed the law and holding bad actors accountable.”
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. Any person who attended these schools should visit the Department’s website at www.tdlr.texas.gov/anti-trafficking-team/student-resources.htm for further information.
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. A hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings may be held to determine whether the emergency order should be affirmed, modified, or set aside.