Franchise wants me to work uncertified
I recently moved to California from the midwest where I worked as a licensed MT, however I am still waiting for my certification card from CAMTC. My new employer hired me while aware that we would still be waiting for my certification (up to 90 days), but assured me that it typically only takes a few weeks to get approved and I can open up my schedule as soon as we get my certification number.
4 weeks have passed since I submitted my CAMTC application and I am still waiting for my certification, but my employer asked me to cover a shift for a sick massage therapist so they wouldn't have to cancel a few appointments that day. I politely declined and said that I would like to wait for my certification to come in before I take on clients. They said that's fine, but they now have made me bookable on their website and my schedule is already filling up. They even asked me to try to speed up the certification process because I am already getting booked (there's nothing I can do but wait, according to CAMTC).
I am very confused as to why my employer would suggest me to work and allow clients to book with me before I get my CAMTC certification. I know certification in CA is voluntary, but my county requires a local permit or certification. When I spoke with CAMTC, they said they don't like giving advice on these matters and it's under the discretion of my employer if I may work or not. If that's the case, then what's the point of having local massage laws?
At this point, I'm not sure if I should move forward working with this company if they were willing to bend local laws and take a liability risk to save a few appointments. Am I being dramatic or should I seek employment elsewhere?